The Premier League's officiating body, Pro Ref, has issued a formal apology to Manchester United after acknowledging that Erling Haaland's match-winning goal in Manchester City's 1-0 derby victory was allowed to stand through a VAR error.

Pro Ref confirmed that the decision to award Haaland's goal was made incorrectly, meaning the outcome of one of English football's most high-profile fixtures was shaped by a officiating mistake. The revelation has reignited debate around the reliability of VAR in the Premier League.

Manchester City claimed the three points on the back of the solitary goal from Haaland, who has been one of the most clinical strikers in the league since his arrival. However, the goal should not have counted, according to Pro Ref's own assessment.

The apology to Manchester United acknowledges the error but does nothing to alter the result — the points remain with City, leaving United without recourse despite the admission.

VAR controversies have dogged the Premier League throughout its use of the technology, and this latest incident is likely to intensify calls from clubs and supporters for greater transparency and accountability from match officials. The confirmation of an error at the heart of a Manchester derby — one of the most watched matches in world football — will only sharpen that scrutiny.