Professional Game Referees
ON THE RECORD · 4 verbatim quotes · every quote source-verified
“The on-field decision was offside against Erling Haaland – that was checked by VAR and he was found to be in an onside position,”
Professional Game Referees · said 2026-09-13 · reported 2026-09-14
Pro Ref issued a statement acknowledging the on-field offside decision was checked by VAR and Haaland was found onside.
“In the same attack, it was established that Enzo Fernandez did not play the ball and therefore that makes any offside offence subjective. However, on this occasion, the VAR did not recognise the likely impact of his position and should have recommended an on-field review.”
Professional Game Referees · said 2026-09-13 · reported 2026-09-14
Pro Ref's statement explained that while Fernandez did not play the ball, the VAR should have recommended an on-field review due to the likely impact of his offside position.
“Contact has been made with Manchester United this evening to acknowledge what we deem is an error of judgment. A review of the incident will take place.”
Professional Game Referees · said 2026-09-13 · reported 2026-09-14
Pro Ref's statement confirmed contact had been made with Manchester United to acknowledge an error of judgment and that a review would take place.
“did not recognise the likely impact”
Professional Game Referees · said 2026-09-13 · reported 2026-09-14
Pro Ref admitted the decision to allow Haaland's goal was an error of judgment, saying VAR did not recognise the likely impact of Fernandez.