The Premier League has now explained the VAR call that ruled out an early Manchester United penalty during their dramatic 3–2 win over Fulham at Old Trafford, a decision that dominated the first half of an otherwise chaotic contest. Referee John Brooks initially awarded a spot-kick after Matheus Cunha went down under pressure from Fulham defender Jorge Cuenca, but the call was overturned following a VAR review and replaced with a free-kick.
According to the league’s Match Centre, officials concluded that Cuenca’s holding foul began and effectively ended just outside the penalty area, with Cunha’s fall inside the box judged to be a consequence of that initial contact rather than a separate offence. Under IFAB laws, VAR ruled there was no justification to keep the penalty decision, despite how marginal the margin appeared.
United fans were furious, but the frustration was short-lived as Casemiro headed home Bruno Fernandes’ resulting free-kick minutes later. Fulham manager Marco Silva still criticised the officiating, claiming the decision and its aftermath affected his players mentally, even earning himself a booking on the touchline.
Michael Carrick took a calmer view, admitting the call felt harsh in real time but praising his side’s response. VAR remained central throughout the match, disallowing a Fulham goal for offside before late strikes from both sides set up Benjamin Šeško’s stoppage-time winner. Despite the controversy, the Premier League insists the decision was correct, ensuring the debate will rage on long after full-time.
