Enzo Maresca Dismisses Derby Controversy: “We Are Still Waiting for an Apology”

 Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca has brushed off the controversy surrounding Erling Haaland’s winning goal against Manchester United, reminding critics of a similar incident from three years ago that went against City.

Haaland scored the only goal of the game in the 60th minute, securing a hard-fought 1-0 victory for City at Old Trafford despite Phil Foden receiving a red card in the 23rd minute. However, the goal sparked intense debate after VAR allowed it to stand, despite Enzo Fernández attempting to play the ball from an offside position during the buildup.

“It Happens For You, Sometimes Against You”

When asked about the incident after the refereeing body acknowledged an error of judgment, Maresca was quick to highlight a precedent set in the same fixture back in January 2023.

“Three years ago, when I was here, it happened exactly the same against Man United, we lost the derby there. The goal was not a regular goal, if you remember? And to be honest, no one apologised. We are still waiting for the apology for that goal.

Sometimes it happens for you, sometimes against you. It’s football…”

Maresca was referencing Bruno Fernandes’ controversial equalizer in 2023, where Marcus Rashford was clearly offside and shielding the ball before Fernandes finished. The goal was famously allowed to stand, leading to intense frustration from the City bench at the time.

A Heroic 10-Man Performance

Rather than dwelling on refereeing decisions, Maresca praised his side’s resilience after playing over an hour a man down.

“To come to Old Trafford, lose a player after 20 minutes, and still control the match and get three points—that is what we should be talking about,” Maresca added. “The character from the team was unbelievable.”

Was VAR right to let Haaland’s goal stand, or should it have been ruled out? Have your say in the comments section below!