In a shocking twist following Chelsea’s 1-0 triumph over Manchester United at Stamford Bridge, match referee Chris Kavanagh has come forward with serious claims regarding the disallowed goal scored by United’s Harry Maguire. The disallowed goal, which occurred early in the first half, has now sparked significant controversy, with Kavanagh alleging that he was pressured by senior football officials to overturn a goal he personally believed was completely valid.
Kavanagh, speaking candidly, expressed disbelief over the decision. “From where I stood, it was never offside,” he said. “I saw it clearly and had no doubts about allowing the goal. But the directive came from officials above me, insisting I disallow it. I still haven’t been given a reason, and that’s deeply troubling. One thing I can say with certainty: VAR didn’t just make an honest mistake — it took sides. Chelsea was clearly favored, and that goal was unjustly taken from Manchester United. Now, I’ve decided to come forward and tell the truth.”
The controversial moment unfolded in the 16th minute when Harry Maguire, finding himself in the box, fired a right-footed shot into the net, seemingly putting United ahead. Celebrations, however, were short-lived as the VAR team reviewed the goal and eventually ruled it out for offside. The review focused on the position of Maguire’s knee and foot, claiming he was marginally ahead of the last defender. Yet this ruling immediately drew backlash online, especially from United fans who believed that the technology had failed them once again.
Social media platforms were quickly flooded with reactions, with countless fans and football analysts questioning the integrity of the VAR decision. A major point of contention was the use of the offside lines during the review process. Many viewers noted that the VAR team appeared to analyze the play using the position of the wrong Chelsea defender. According to critics, it was not the defender being referenced on screen, but rather Marc Cucurella, who was actually the last man in the defensive line, thus keeping Maguire onside.
The incident has reignited debates about the accuracy and transparency of VAR decisions in the Premier League, with fans demanding accountability. If Kavanagh’s allegations are confirmed or further supported, this could mark one of the most scandalous episodes in recent Premier League history, raising serious concerns about the influence of senior officials over match o
utcomes.
