Arsenal responds to Pro Ref as organization faces criticism after Manchester derby VAR issue
Arsenal are reportedly planning to reach out to Pro Ref about a referee decision during their 2-0 win over Sunderland.
Pro Ref has already been in the spotlight this weekend because of Erling Haaland’s controversial winning goal in the Manchester derby. Haaland’s goal, which gave City a 1-0 win even though they played most of the game with ten men after Phil Foden was sent off, was first ruled out. But after a VAR check, the goal was allowed because Patrick Dorgu was offside.
This decision confused fans, experts, and even Manchester United players, since City midfielder Enzo Fernandez clearly tried to play the ball but didn’t touch it. Pro Ref later admitted they made an “error of judgement” in a statement.
The statement explained: “During the 60th minute of Sunday’s game between Manchester United and Manchester City, the on-field call was offside for Haaland. VAR checked and found he was onside. Enzo Fernandez didn’t play the ball, which makes the offside call tricky, but VAR missed the likely impact of his position and should have asked for an on-field review. We’ve contacted Manchester United to admit this error and will review the incident.”
It’s not just Man United who feel a referee decision went against them this week. Arsenal are also said to be contacting Pro Ref and chief referee Howard Webb over a penalty given to Sunderland, reports journalist Henry Winter.
On X, he wrote: “Arsenal will contact Howard Webb and Pro Ref about the penalty given against Ezri Konsa, which looked more like a judo roll by Dan Ballard. The penalty didn’t change the result since David Raya made a great save and Arsenal still won with goals from Bruno Guimaraes and Bukayo Saka. It will be interesting if they bring up the controversial Man City goal too, which might be an even bigger deal for Arsenal’s title chances.”
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta spoke about the penalty after the game on Saturday (September 12), calling the decision “unacceptable.”
He said: “Sunderland are very organized and tough to play against, with great players who cause problems. We had a difficult week already, and then we have to deal with a decision that, to me, is not acceptable. I’ve watched it 20 times and can’t see why they gave a penalty or how VAR got involved. It’s sad we have to talk about this after such a great game, but decisions like this can change the course of the season and cost you a title. With all the work we put in, this can’t happen.”
Arsenal will play again away at Ipswich Town in the third round of the Carabao Cup on Tuesday (September 15).