Manchester City boss Enzo Maresca has defended VAR officials after his side benefited from a clear mistake in Sunday’s 1-0 win over Manchester United.
Erling Haaland scored the winning goal in the 60th minute at Old Trafford, giving City four straight Premier League wins. Haaland had initially been flagged offside, but VAR ruled that United defender Patrick Dorgu had played him onside. However, the officials failed to consider Enzo Fernandez, who was clearly offside and interfering with play.
Refereeing body Pro Ref later admitted an “error of judgment” and said the VAR should have advised the referee to review the incident on the pitch.
Speaking before Thursday’s League Cup clash with Norwich, Maresca said VAR officials face a difficult job.
“Sometimes they go for you, the decisions, sometimes they go against you,” he said. “But also it’s not easy, I think, for the VAR, for the people that are in front of the screen, and in 10 seconds, 20 seconds they have to make a decision.
“It’s not easy for them. Sometimes they make some mistakes. I make mistakes, players make mistakes, I think it’s part of our job.”
Maresca was unhappy that the goal overshadowed City’s performance, especially after Phil Foden was sent off in the first half.
The Italian also recalled a similar incident from 2022/23, when he was Guardiola’s assistant. Bruno Fernandes scored against City despite Marcus Rashford being offside.
“Three years ago, when I was here, it happened exactly the same against Man United,” said the former Chelsea boss.
“We lost the derby there. The goal was not a regular goal, if you remember. To be honest, no one apologised. We are still waiting for the apology for that goal.
“Sometimes it happens for you, sometimes it happens against you. It’s football.”
Maresca dismissed questions about playing without VAR in the League Cup and praised City’s display.
“I’m pleased with the unbelievable performance from the players on Sunday,” he said. “I’m very pleased with that. Talking about one moment after that game, when we played for 70-75 minutes with 10 players, I think it’s quite poor. I think the performance was unbelievable.”
