MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - MARCH 15: Bruno Fernandes of Manchester United complains to referee Anthony Taylor after Ross Barkley of Aston Villa (not pictured) scores his team's first goal during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Aston Villa at Old Trafford on March 15, 2026 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Lewis Storey/Getty Images)
Manchester United were unhappy with the decision
The Match Centre has explained why controversial goal against was allowed to stand. Midway through the second half at Old Trafford, star Barkley finished off a scramble to make it 1-1, cancelling out opener.
Replays showed that Barkley's team-mate, Amadou Onana, was standing in an offside during the goal and had potentially obstructed United goalkeeper Senne Lammens' line of vision. There was also a debate over whether the ball had made contact with Onana's backside before flying in.
Following a check, the on-field decision stood and the goal was given. The Premier League Match Centre then posted on their X account: "The referee's call of goal was checked and confirmed by VAR – with Onana in offside position, but not deemed to be in the goalkeeper's line of vision or to have touched the ball."
On commentary for , thought that he'd seen Onana suggest before play restarted that the ball had indeed struck him. "Only he would know, he's unlikely to admit it," the United legend said. "Ooh - has he just said he did?!"
Neville didn't believe that Onana had impacted Lammen's vision, though, adding: "There's a look at the offside, but that would be really harsh. Lammens would have had no chance."
Fortunately for the hosts, restored their lead seven minutes later. scored to make it 3-1 in the closing stages, as United took a huge step forward in their pursuit of football.
For Villa, the defeat leaves them at risk of dropping to fifth should beat later on Sunday. side were at their best after going behind but couldn't take advantage when Barkley got them back on level terms.
Should the goal have been given? Have your say in the .
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