Manchester United is planning to lodge a formal complaint with the referees’ body, Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL), due to what they perceive as inconsistent decisions during their recent 2-2 draw against AFC Bournemouth in the Premier League. The match was marred by controversial calls, including the awarding of two penalties and the dismissal of defender Harry Maguire for a foul that led to a spot-kick for Bournemouth.
The frustration for Manchester United primarily stemmed from a situation where Amad Diallo seemed to be fouled inside the penalty area, but the referee and VAR allowed play to continue. This decision contrasted with an earlier similar incident that resulted in a penalty for United, converted by Bruno Fernandes. Interim manager Michael Carrick criticized the decisions, labeling them as ‘baffling’ and questioning the inconsistency in judgment between two seemingly identical incidents.
Carrick expressed his disbelief at the differing rulings, highlighting the need for clarity and consistency in officiating such situations. The club’s Director of Football, Jason Wilcox, is expected to engage with referees’ chief Howard Webb to seek explanations regarding the contentious decisions. Meanwhile, Manchester United missed an opportunity to solidify their third position in the Premier League standings, now standing at 55 points in 31 matches, with a narrow lead over Aston Villa.
