Wayne Rooney criticises the use of VAR following a disputed Manchester derby decision that allows Erling Haaland’s goal to stand. Rooney says he is “sick of it” and argues that the review process does not produce outcomes he believes are correct or consistent.
The Manchester Evening News reports Rooney’s reaction as part of broader questioning around a “baffling” and “horrendous” VAR call involving the referee’s assessment. The Mirror likewise highlights Rooney’s scathing review of VAR, noting that Manchester United has issued an apology to the Premier League’s referee body after an earlier incident involving Pro Ref, but that Rooney’s comments still focus on the VAR decision itself.
Across the outlets, the common point is Rooney’s public dissatisfaction with VAR after Haaland’s goal is upheld. Where they differ is emphasis: one frames it as a specific Manchester derby VAR decision that Rooney labels baffling, while the other places Rooney’s critique alongside the club’s apology and broader frustration among football figures.
