The latest controversy centred on Haaland’s goal, which was initially ruled out for offside by the on-field officials before the decision was overturned following a VAR review.
VAR officials determined that Haaland had been played onside by Manchester United defender Patrick Dorgu. However, Manchester City forward Enzo Fernández was adjudged to have been in an offside position while attempting to play the ball before it reached Haaland.
Pro Ref subsequently contacted Manchester United to apologise for the decision, acknowledging that the goal should have been disallowed.
The admission prompted Maresca to recall another disputed decision involving the two Manchester clubs, claiming City are still waiting for an apology over a Bruno Fernandes goal scored against them at Old Trafford three years ago.
Maresca said the incident had similarities to the latest controversy, insisting that City did not receive the same acknowledgment after losing the derby.
“Three years ago we lost the Derby at Old Trafford with a goal that had to be disallowed. No one apologised. We are still waiting for the apology,” Maresca said.
The City boss, however, appeared to acknowledge that controversial officiating decisions are part of football and can benefit or hurt different teams at different times.
“Sometimes it happens for you, sometimes against you. It’s football,” he added.
The latest VAR controversy has once again placed scrutiny on the interpretation of offside rules and the role of video officials in decisive moments, particularly when a marginal decision directly affects the outcome of a derby.