‘Seen VAR give penalties for less’: Fans can’t believe Man United didn’t get penalty after Dias took down Hojlund without even touching a ball

Manchester United fans are furious after what they believe was a blatant penalty incident ignored by both the referee and VAR during the heated Manchester Derby.

The moment in question came when Manchester City’s Rúben Dias brought down United’s Rasmus Højlund without even making contact with the ball.

The controversial decision sparked outrage across social media, with fans venting their frustration.

One fan tweeted: “That’s a penalty. Dias misses the ball and takes Højlund down! VAR gives penalties for less every week!” Another added: “How is that not a penalty? He throws his leg across Højlund and gets nowhere near the ball!”

The incident occurred during a pivotal moment of the match, with Højlund getting to the ball first before being taken out by Dias.

Fans pointed out the inconsistency of VAR decisions, with one supporter lamenting: “Seen VAR give penalties for less on a weekly basis for two years.”

Some fans suggested that Højlund should have “sold” the foul better to draw attention to the challenge, but others argued the incident was clear enough to warrant intervention.

“That was a clear penalty if Højlund sold it better,” a frustrated fan noted.

The decision—or lack thereof—has reignited debates about the use of VAR in high-stakes matches, with United supporters feeling aggrieved yet again. As one put it:

“I’m beginning to think VAR is anti-Manchester United!”

Despite the controversy, Manchester United managed to grind out a victory, but the incident remains a talking point, adding another chapter to the growing list of VAR-related grievances in the Premier League.