Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has delivered a blistering assessment of the officiating in his side's dramatic 2-1 defeat to Fulham, branding key decisions "clear and obvious" errors that have no place in the Premier League.
The Red Devils' four-match winning streak was shattered in stoppage time at Old Trafford when Alex Iwobi fired home a winner, but the build-up to the goal has sparked major controversy. United were convinced they should have been awarded a foul on Fernandes moments before the decisive counter-attack.
Fernandes Fumes at 'Clear Foul' Ignored
Speaking to Sky Sports post-match, a visibly frustrated Fernandes did not hold back: "You have to ask them the question. They have to explain. It's a clear foul on me on the edge of the box. The referee told me he didn't think it was a foul, but it's clear, it's obvious.
You can see the foot of the Fulham player on my foot. In the Premier League, with all the respect, it has to be a foul. It's unacceptable these kinds of mistakes."
VAR Under Fire Again
The incident was checked by VAR official Michael Salisbury, who opted not to advise on-pitch referee Chris Kavanagh to review the monitor, allowing the goal to stand. This decision has thrown the Video Assistant Referee system back into the spotlight, raising familiar questions about its consistency and application in crucial match moments.
Fernandes's outburst highlights the growing frustration players and managers feel towards what they perceive as inconsistent and often baffling officiating, even with technological aid.
Amorim Links Add to United's Woes
Compounding a miserable afternoon for the club, the defeat coincided with widespread reports that Sporting Lisbon manager Ruben Amorim has emerged as a primary candidate to replace the under-pressure Erik ten Hag. This speculation creates a palpable sense of uncertainty around the club's future direction.
The loss leaves Manchester United eight points adrift of the top four, dealing a significant blow to their hopes of Champions League qualification next season and piling more pressure on the Dutch manager.
