Howard Webb says Handball Goal Should Have Been Disallowed

Howard Webb, chief refereeing officer of the Professional Game Match Officials, told Nottingham Forest that the decision not to disallow Matheus Cunha’s goal was wrong because of Bryan Mbeumo’s handball in Manchester United’s 3-2 win at Old Trafford on Sunday.

The goal came in the 55th minute and was initially allowed by referee Michael Salisbury despite the handball. Webb judged Salisbury’s decision too lenient under Premier League handball guidelines.

Premier League rules permit some leeway for natural movements, but Webb said the incident should have been classified as an unintentional handball that warranted overturning. Video assistant referee Matt Donohue asked Salisbury to review the incident on the pitch‑side monitor.

Webb’s assessment suggests Salisbury misjudged the handball as accidental, leading to the goal standing. The referee’s review process involved the VAR team but did not result in a reversal.

The match ended 3‑2 to Manchester United, with Matheus Cunha scoring the contested goal. The decision sparked discussion about the consistency of handball rulings in the Premier League.

Webb’s comments to Nottingham Forest underline the need for clearer application of handball law in future matches. Officials may adjust guidance to avoid similar errors.