FIFA releases an official statement regarding the referees and match officials involved in the controversial decision this morning
The Premier League woke up to turbulence after an explosive “official” development concerning Manchester United’s disputed 1-1 draw against West Ham earlier this week. Although the league table remains unchanged for now, the controversy surrounding Casemiro’s ruled-out goal in the 63rd minute has reportedly prompted a formal FA investigation and even drawn attention from FIFA.
Michael Carrick’s impressive unbeaten start as interim manager has now encountered its first off-field complication, but many United supporters see the situation as a victory for justice rather than a setback.
The drama began at the London Stadium on Tuesday night. With United trailing 1-0, Casemiro climbed highest to power a header past the goalkeeper from a precise Kobbie Mainoo delivery. Celebrations were cut short when VAR intervened. After a prolonged review, officials disallowed the goal for a tight offside call.
What followed ignited outrage. Post-match footage circulating online appeared to show questionable line placement during the VAR check, fuelling claims that the decision was flawed. Social media quickly erupted with accusations that United had been unfairly treated.
Benjamin Šeško eventually salvaged a point with a late equaliser, ensuring the match ended 1-1. The result kept United fourth on 45 points, narrowly ahead of Chelsea, who sit fifth with 44.
However, fresh reports indicate the FA has reviewed the VAR data from the match internally. While the Premier League has historically resisted altering final results after the whistle, mounting pressure could test that precedent. FIFA has also reportedly issued a communication expressing concern about the consistency of officiating standards in England’s top flight, particularly the implementation of offside technology in high-stakes moments.
Should the authorities take the extraordinary step of revising the outcome to a 2-1 United victory, the standings would shift significantly, giving Carrick’s side a three-point cushion over Chelsea instead of just one.
On the pitch, Carrick’s impact has been undeniable. Since stepping into the role on January 16, he has guided United to 13 points from a possible 15, restoring belief and reshaping the club’s top-four ambitions. What began as cautious optimism has quickly evolved into serious momentum.
Sir Alex Ferguson is said to have advised Carrick to concentrate on performances rather than politics, but among supporters, optimism is already surging. Many are convinced that corrective action is inevitable.
If the decision is ultimately revised, it could become one of the defining VAR controversies of the 2026 campaign — and potentially trigger a fierce response from Chelsea that might plunge the title race and top-four battle into even deeper uncertainty.
