Video: Manchester United lodge formal complaint over missed late penalty in Bournemouth draw
Abdullateef Fowewe
Manchester United manager, Michael Carrick has slammed Premier League refereeing as “crazy” and “mental” after a controversial 2-2 draw at Bournemouth on Friday night, prompting the club to file a formal complaint with PGMOL chief Howard Webb.
Bruno Fernandes opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the first half, giving United a deserved lead.
But Bournemouth fought back twice, equalising through sharp finishing after Harry Maguire’s red card swung momentum decisively in their favour midway through the second half.
The flashpoint came late in the game when Amad Diallo went down under a heavy challenge in the box, only for referee Chris Kavanagh to wave play on – a decision not reviewed by VAR.
Furious at what they see as inconsistent officiating, United have contacted Webb directly, highlighting the incident as emblematic of broader issues.
Carrick didn’t hold back post-match: “It’s crazy, mental decisions that keep happening. We’re not getting the rub of the green.”
The controversy feeds into mounting scrutiny of Premier League officiating.
Match analysts note United have been denied four penalties this season alone, while VAR interventions have surged 15% since 2024, fueling debates on referee accountability and consistency.
United remain third on the table, with Carrick urging focus ahead of next weekend’s clash at home.
