Lisandro Martinez has hit out at the decision to allow Erling Haaland’s winner to stand in Manchester United’s derby defeat, calling it an “injustice” after the goal was initially ruled out for offside.
The incident became the biggest talking point at Old Trafford when Haaland tapped in from close range at the back post just after the hour mark. The assistant referee immediately raised his flag, appearing to rule the Manchester City striker offside.
However, referee Michael Oliver delayed the restart while VAR reviewed the decision. After a lengthy check, the original call was overturned and Haaland’s goal was awarded.
The Premier League Match Centre explained that Haaland was actually being played onside by Patrick Dorgu from the initial cross into the box. It also clarified the role of Enzo Fernandez, who had been in an offside position when the ball passed him.
According to the Match Centre, Fernandez did not touch the ball, meaning he was not penalised as an offside player for interfering with play.
“VAR checked the referee’s call of no goal for offside – and determined that Haaland was in an onside position and recommended that the goal was awarded. The VAR also deemed that while in an offside position, Fernandez didn’t play the ball.”
Lisandro Martinez demands answers over controversial Haaland decision
There was a different view from Lisandro Martinez, who felt Fernandez’s position directly affected his attempt to defend the cross. The Manchester United defender made a challenge to head the ball before Haaland arrived at the back post.
Speaking to Sky Sports after the match, Martinez made it clear that he was unhappy with the decision.
“I think he was offside,” he began. “What I can’t understand is the rules, you know? He was there, I went to him because he was in front of me that’s why Haaland was free but I want to be calm now, I want to control myself.”
Lisandro Martinez was also frustrated by the level of officiating in a game of such importance, particularly after United had suffered a home defeat.
“So hard because you lost the derby, three points at home. Every time they come to our club, they explain one hour, hour and a half with the rules then after five or six people doing this kind of mistake in the PL is unacceptable.”
Manchester United have been wronged
The Argentine defender admitted he needed to control his emotions but said he felt strongly that United had been wronged.
“You have the best players, best teams in the world and now we have to go home with this injustice.”
Martinez then explained why he believed Fernandez’s presence had influenced his decision-making during the move.
“For sure, it’s difficult. I have two players there and I was 50/50, had to take the first guy in front. Simple as that (if Enzo Fernandez isn’t there, it goes to Erling Haaland).”
Rather than accepting the explanation provided by VAR, Martinez wants to hear directly from the officials about why the goal was allowed.
He added: “Let’s see what they have to say, let’s see, I want to hear what their decision is. Based off what? I want to hear it.”
The decision ultimately left United with no points from the Manchester derby, while Martinez’s comments have added further fire to a controversial moment that could dominate discussion going into the next week.
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