Michael Carrick has questioned the decision to allow Erling Haaland’s goal to stand in Manchester United’s 1-0 defeat to Manchester City, admitting he was struggling to understand the reasoning behind the VAR call.
Erling Haaland struck in the 60th minute at Old Trafford after Josko Gvardiol’s cross took a touch off Patrick Dorgu’s boot before travelling past Enzo Fernandez and Lisandro Martinez. Haaland eventually finished from close range.
The goal was initially ruled out for offside, but VAR overturned the decision after deciding Fernandez had not interfered with play. That explanation did not convince Michael Carrick, particularly because Martinez was marking the midfielder as the ball came across.
Michael Carrick questions Premier League’s offside interpretation
“At the time I hadn’t totally seen it. But the explanation I got was he wasn’t interfering with play, so I just don’t get it,” the United boss said.
Michael Carrick was particularly frustrated by the number of officials and technology involved in reaching what he considered a straightforward decision.
“If that’s how the rules are interpreted, that you’re not interfering with play because you’ve thrown yourself at the ball six yards from goal and pretty much nearly touched it, which then Lisandro has to react from – it’s worrying if that’s really how the game’s seen by those who are officiating it.”
Asked whether an apology from Pro Ref would be welcome, Carrick responded sarcastically: “Yeah, that’d be great, that. Yeah, I can’t wait for that one.”
“I think we all understand what that rule means [regarding interfering with play], and it’s pretty obvious. It’s as obvious as it gets.”
The defeat leaves Manchester United with just four points and down in 13th place, while Manchester City have 12 points and sit second behind Arsenal on goal difference.
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