Wayne Rooney calls for VAR removal after Manchester derby controversy

Wayne Rooney has called for the removal of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system following a controversial Manchester derby in which Manchester United lost 1-0 to Manchester City at Old Trafford.

The decisive goal, scored by Erling Haaland, was initially ruled out for offside by an assistant referee but was subsequently validated by VAR. However, replays indicated that Enzo Fernandez was in an offside position when attempting to head the ball back into play, influencing defender Lisandro Martinez. Professional Refereeing (Pro Ref) later issued a statement apologizing and acknowledging the goal should have been disallowed.

Rooney criticized the decision, stating that the system “removes all the emotion and energy from the game” and noting that the offside position was obvious to anyone who has played football.

In addition to the officiating controversy, Rooney expressed frustration with Manchester United's performance, specifically highlighting a missed opportunity by Bryan Mbeumo in stoppage time. Despite Manchester United playing with a numerical advantage after Phil Foden received a red card in the 23rd minute, the team remains in 13th place in the Premier League standings with only one win from their first four matches.