Gary Neville slams VAR decision to award Erling Haaland's goal in Manchester derby

Gary Neville has criticised the VAR decision that allowed Erling Haaland's goal to stand as Manchester City beat Manchester United in the Manchester derby on Sunday 13 September 2026. The former United defender called the call a "shocker" after City won with ten men following a red card.

  • Event: Manchester derby – Manchester United vs Manchester City
  • Date: Sunday 13 September 2026
  • Result: Manchester City won 1-0
  • Key goal: Erling Haaland scored the only goal
  • Red card: Phil Foden was sent off for Manchester City
  • VAR controversy: Gary Neville slammed the decision to allow Haaland's goal

What was said

"That is a shocker from VAR. How can they give that? It's a clear mistake and Manchester United should be furious."

— Gary Neville, Sky Sports pundit, on the VAR decision to award Erling Haaland's goal

Neville's strong criticism highlights the ongoing frustration with VAR in the Premier League. The former Manchester United captain was adamant that the decision was incorrect and that United should feel aggrieved. His comments reflect a growing sentiment that consistency in VAR rulings is still lacking.

The pundit's reaction is particularly notable given his allegiance to Manchester United, but he has been consistent in calling out decisions he believes are wrong regardless of which team benefits. The controversy will likely dominate post-match discussion and add pressure on referees and VAR officials to explain their reasoning.

Match analysis: How City won with ten men

Manchester City's victory in the derby was built on resilience and a moment of quality from Erling Haaland. Despite losing Phil Foden to a red card, City managed to hold on to their lead and secure all three points at Old Trafford. The goal, which came after a VAR check, proved decisive in a tense encounter.

The red card to Foden changed the complexion of the game, forcing City to adapt and defend deeper. However, their organisation and determination saw them through, with Haaland's finishing once again proving the difference in a big match. United, meanwhile, will feel hard done by the VAR decision and will rue their inability to capitalise on the numerical advantage.

This result adds another chapter to the fierce rivalry between the two Manchester clubs. City's ability to win under adversity demonstrates their title-winning mentality, while United are left to reflect on what might have been had the VAR call gone their way. The debate over the goal will continue, but the points are heading to the Etihad.

Talking points

  • Should VAR have intervened to disallow Erling Haaland's goal, or was the on-field decision correct? The debate will rage on.
  • Did Phil Foden's red card give Manchester United an unfair advantage, or did City's ten men show superior character to win anyway?
  • Is Gary Neville right to call the VAR decision a "shocker", or is his Manchester United bias clouding his judgement?
  • Will this controversial result have a lasting impact on the Premier League title race and the pressure on referees?

What happens next

Manchester City will look to build on this derby win in their next Premier League fixture, while Manchester United must regroup quickly to avoid a slump. The VAR controversy will continue to be analysed by pundits and fans alike, and the Premier League may face further calls for greater transparency from match officials. Both clubs will return to action next weekend, with City aiming to maintain their momentum and United desperate to bounce back.

Frequently asked questions

What was the VAR decision in the Manchester derby?

VAR allowed Erling Haaland's goal to stand for Manchester City against Manchester United, a decision Gary Neville called a "shocker".

Who was sent off in the Manchester derby?

Phil Foden was sent off for Manchester City, meaning they played with ten men for part of the match.

What was the final score of Manchester United vs Manchester City?

Manchester City won 1-0 thanks to Erling Haaland's goal, despite playing with ten men after Phil Foden's red card.

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