Head Referee Webb Admits Major VAR Error in Manchester United Brentford Match

Howard Webb, head of the Professional Game Match Officials (PGMO), has admitted to Manchester United that a crucial refereeing error occurred during their 3-1 defeat to Brentford, where Brentford captain Nathan Collins should have been sent off for fouling Bryan Mbeumo in the penalty area. The incident denied United a clear goal-scoring opportunity, and despite a penalty being awarded, Collins only received a yellow card, a decision upheld by VAR based on the mistaken premise that Mbeumo was not in control of the ball. United officials, including CEO Omar Berrada and technical director Jason Wilcox, sought clarification from Webb, who acknowledged the mistake and appreciated the club's transparency. This error possibly influenced the match outcome and increased pressure on Brentford manager Ruben Amorim, though his position has since stabilized after a subsequent win. The controversy highlights ongoing challenges with VAR decisions and referee interpretations in English football, with Webb's admission marking a rare acknowledgment of error at this level. The incident reflects wider issues in officiating, as similar errors and subsequent admissions have occurred in other leagues, underscoring the human element in football refereeing despite technological support.