Manchester United fans were left furious after Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba escaped a red card during their recent clash at Old Trafford.
Brighton took an early lead through Yankuba Minteh in the fifth minute, but the match became controversial following Baleba’s challenge on Joshua Zirkzee.
The incident occurred when Zirkzee broke through on goal after a Brighton defensive error. With a clear chance to score, Baleba brought him down in what appeared to be a blatant denial of a goal-scoring opportunity.
Despite the nature of the foul, referee Martin Atkinson issued only a yellow card, prompting outrage among United supporters.
United equalized through a Bruno Fernandes penalty in the 23rd minute, but the decision to allow Baleba to stay on the pitch overshadowed the first half.
Fans questioned the Premier League’s officiating standards, with one supporter tweeting, *“How is that not a red card? Baleba was the last man and didn’t even try to play the ball. What’s the point of rules if they aren’t enforced?”*
Another fan likened the foul to a wrestling move, writing, *“Baleba literally body-slammed Zirkzee, and all he gets is a yellow? Unbelievable.”* The backlash continued, with many branding the decision as a joke.
By the rules, denying a clear goal-scoring opportunity without attempting to play the ball should result in a straight red card. Former referee Mark Clattenburg echoed this sentiment, calling the decision “baffling.”
United manager Rúben Amorim shared his frustration after the match, stating, *“It’s hard to accept decisions like this, especially when they change the game. Zirkzee was through on goal—it’s a clear red card.”*
Despite the controversy, United fought on, creating several chances in an attempt to take control of the game.
Meanwhile, Baleba’s continued presence proved crucial for Brighton, as he disrupted United’s attempts to dominate possession, adding to the home side’s frustration.
Clips of the incident quickly circulated on social media, sparking debate about whether VAR should have intervened.
Many fans were left questioning the consistency of officiating in the Premier League, an issue that has plagued United in several matches this season.
Brighton’s involvement in recent refereeing controversies has raised concerns about officiating standards, with some suggesting reforms may be necessary.
As for United, the incident is yet another setback in a season marked by external challenges and missed opportunities.
While Manchester United’s focus remains on improving their performances, moments like these highlight the obstacles they face.
For fans, the hope is that the Premier League reviews such decisions and takes steps to ensure greater consistency in the future.
Until then, the debate over Carlos Baleba’s foul is likely to continue, becoming another contentious moment in an already dramatic campaign.
