Credit: Imago

Premier League release statement after VAR controversy during Liverpool vs Man United

Tom graduated with a BA Hons English Language degree from the University of Hull in 2020. He spent years as a freelance football journalist before holding positions as a content writer at SportsBroker and a digital football journalist at GRV Media. He joined Breaking Media in August 2025 as an assistant editor, writing and editing content for the company's club sites and leading the feature content for Football Insider.

Published on:

19 Oct 2025, 12:58 pm

When Manchester United face off against Liverpool, controversy is always guaranteed, and the latest clash at Anfield didn't disappoint.

Bryan Mbeumo gave Man United a shock early lead against Liverpool with the quickest goal ever scored in this fixture at Anfield.

There was an element of fortune surrounding Mbeumo's strike, though, as Alexis Mac Allister's head injury went unpenalised and play wasn't brought to a halt by referee Michael Oliver.

Oliver has a long history of poor decisions, and Liverpool supporters felt he was coming back to haunt them once more, especially when they were denied a penalty.

Amad Diallo in action for Manchester United

Credit: Imago

Premier League statement explains why Amad Diallo's handball wasn't given

In the 18th minute of the game, Arne Slot was crying for a penalty on the touchline after Cody Gakpo's cross struck Amad Diallo's hand.

Amad raised his arm to block the cross, with many feeling a spot kick should have been awarded, but VAR waved away that possibility.

As highlighted by the Premier League's Match Centre, Amad's hand was in a 'natural and justifiable' position to block the cross, sparking more fury from the majority inside Anfield.

#LIVMUN – 18’

The referee’s call of no penalty was checked and confirmed by VAR – with it deemed that Amad’s arm was in a natural and justifiable position.
— Premier League Match Centre (@PLMatchCentre) October 19, 2025

Man United barraged Giorgi Mamadashvilli's goal with shots during the first half, mustering three big chances, with Bruno Fernandes squandering arguably their biggest.

The Portuguese maestro shot wide, unmarked just inside the box, and that would have put his side into a commanding position.

(Credit: Getty Images)

Gary Neville shares his verdict on Amad's handball

Amad was arguably unfortunate not to concede a penalty after the ball struck his harm, as similar incidents have been given.

Speaking on Sky Sports commentary, Gary Neville offered his verdict on the incident. "Amad has his arm in the position that referees give penalties for," he said.

"But it hits his other arm. He just needs to keep his arms down. He finds himself in situations he is not used to: blocking crosses."

This moment of fortune and their brilliant attacking play were crucial as Man United secured a massive three points against Liverpool.

Manchester United

Amad Diallo