In a dramatic turn of events during Manchester United’s latest victory, a controversial VAR decision has sparked intense debate, as a seemingly overlooked clear foul committed by Onana has left fans and pundits questioning the accuracy of officiating technology.
Wolverhampton Wanderers have received an apology following the omission of a penalty call in their 1-0 loss to Manchester United, as stated by manager Gary O’Neil.
In stoppage time at Old Trafford, André Onana collided with Sasa Kalajdzic, yet referee Simon Hooper refrained from awarding a penalty.
Despite VAR Michael Salisbury reviewing the incident and deeming it not a glaring error, O’Neil asserted that Jonathan Moss, the PGMOL’s Select Group 1 Manager, acknowledged the error.
“I was told live that they didn’t think that it was a clear and obvious error,” O’Neil said. “But having spoken to Jonathan Moss, and fair play to him for coming straight out, he has apologised and said it was a blatant penalty that should have been given.
“I feel bad because he has come out honestly. I spent the afternoon with him, trying to understand the new guidelines and trying not to get myself booked with the new guidelines, which I failed to do.
“Fair play to Jon saying it was a clear and obvious error. He can’t believe the on-field referee didn’t give it and VAR didn’t intervene. That probably makes me feel even worse. Once you know you’re right, you feel worse leaving with nothing.”
Wolves were unfortunate not to achieve a favorable outcome in the match, despite their 23 shots against United, including six on target. O’Neil expressed his belief that Onana’s challenge had the potential to endanger their striker’s well-being, while United’s manager, Erik ten Hag, held a differing viewpoint.
“When VAR looked at it and decided not to give it, of course we are pleased with it,” Ten Hag said. “I don’t feel I have to react on his [O’Neil’s] interpretation. It’s about the referee and the VAR.
“I think the two players from Wolves come together and Andre didn’t interfere with the action from both of them. First is the touch of the ball and then came Andre.”
Raphaël Varane netted the solitary goal in the Premier League season opener, securing a triumphant start for Ten Hag’s team with a three-point haul.
Wolves registered the second-highest shot count against United at Old Trafford over the past two decades, a testament to O’Neil’s team’s bold attacking approach.
“In the end we can’t just focus on that [penalty] decision,” O’Neil said. “To come to Old Trafford and have the most shots of any side since 2005 and dominate after just four days of work [in training] is exceptional. The lads deserved more tonight.”
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