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Wayne Rooney has launched an angry attack on VAR after Manchester United’s controversial 1-0 defeat to Manchester City, describing the technology as “horrendous” following Erling Haaland’s disputed winner.
City won the game despite playing most of the match with 10 men, but the biggest talking point came from Haaland’s 60th-minute goal, which was initially ruled out for offside before VAR overturned the decision.
Pro Ref later admitted that the officials had made an “error of judgement” by failing to recommend an on-field review over Enzo Fernandez’s involvement in the move.
Rooney slams baffling decision
Speaking on Match of the Day, former United captain Rooney said the decision was difficult to understand, arguing that Fernandez’s offside position and attempt to play the ball should have been considered.
“I’m so sick of VAR, it’s horrendous. It takes all the emotion out the game, the energy that the game is played with,” Rooney said.
“To not see that and recognise that Enzo Fernandez is in an offside position is… anyone that’s played the game at any level understands that and know he’s in an offside position.
“To get it so wrong is just baffling.”
United manager Michael Carrick also questioned the decision, calling the explanation “staggering” and saying he was confused by the interpretation of interfering with play.
Rooney also questions Foden red
Rooney was equally unhappy with Phil Foden’s first-half dismissal, although he stopped short of arguing that the City midfielder should have remained on the pitch.
Foden was shown a straight red card in the 23rd minute after kicking out at Bruno Fernandes following an earlier clash between the pair.
City manager Enzo Maresca argued that both players should have been sent off, while Rooney believed neither deserved a red card.
“I can see why they’ve given the red card but as a football fan you don’t want to see a red card for that,” Rooney said.
“Phil Foden hasn’t kicked him with any amount of force. He’s almost just brushed him with the side of his leg.
“The sensible decision for me is two yellows.”
Despite being a man down for more than 70 minutes, City held on to claim the derby victory and move level on points with Arsenal at the top of the Premier League.