Old Trafford was anything but calm after Manchester United’s thrilling 3–2 victory over Fulham, as the focus quickly drifted away from the dramatic scoreline and onto a fresh wave of refereeing controversy. Despite the late heroics that secured all three points, anger and frustration dominated the post-match mood, with widespread criticism aimed at VAR and match officials. In the aftermath, reports emerged that the Football Association intervened following what many fans saw as yet another damaging officiating display against United, forcing PGMOL into an unusually candid apology for multiple high-profile mistakes.
Benjamin Šeško’s stoppage-time strike ultimately proved decisive, but it did little to quiet the debate surrounding a series of baffling decisions that left players, supporters and pundits stunned. The most glaring moment came when United were initially awarded a penalty after Matheus Cunha was fouled, only for VAR to intervene and reduce it to a free-kick. Officials have since admitted the challenge took place on the penalty area line, meaning the original decision should never have been overturned.
The controversy didn’t stop there. Earlier in the match, United had a goal ruled out after a VAR offside check that was later revealed to be flawed, with the wrong Fulham defender reportedly used to determine the decision. As the game wore on, tensions rose further when Amad Diallo was clearly fouled inside the box, yet play was allowed to continue. This incident, now acknowledged as a clear error, added to the sense that United were repeatedly being let down by officiating calls at key moments.
Reaction to the admissions has been intense. Supporters have voiced growing anger over what they see as a pattern of apologies that offer no real remedy once points, goals or momentum are affected. Michael Carrick commended his side’s mental strength and refusal to fold under pressure, but openly questioned why his team must so often battle against refereeing mistakes as well as their opponents.
Even attempts to defend VAR from the Fulham camp have been weakened by the FA’s own conclusions, which confirmed the errors. With match officials now reportedly facing possible suspension, scrutiny is intensifying over the consistency and accountability of refereeing decisions. For many United fans, the bigger concern remains why their club so frequently finds itself at the centre of these costly and avoidable controversies.
