Reason Man Utd's Opening Goal at Liverpool Was Allowed to Stand Revealed

The reason why Manchester United's controversial opening goal against Liverpool wasn't disallowed has been explained.

On Sunday, Liverpool host historic rivals Manchester United as one one of the most highly-anticipated matches of the Premier League season is underway at Anfield.

Heading into the match, much of the discussion focused on Ruben Amorim's team selection as striker Benjamin Sesko was named on the bench despite scoring in both of his past two appearances.

But the United manager quickly proved his doubters wrong as his side took the lead just minutes into the match thanks to a goal from winger Bryan Mbeumo.

However, many fans questioned why play wasn't stopped shortly before the goal as Liverpool's Alexis Mac Allister suffered a clear head injury in the build-up, and we now have our answer.

Just seconds before Mbeumo made his way past Liverpool's defence and scored the goal that gives his side a lead at half-time, Mac Allister appeared to be caught accidentally by Virgil van Dijk’s elbow while challenging the United forward.

Under the Premier League's current guidelines, match referees can halt the match for any potential head injuries, but Michael Oliver allowed play to continue as he claims he he did not see the injury happen.

Following the incident, the Argentine international received treatment on the pitch, while Liverpool boss Arne Slot questioned the decision during a conversation with the fourth official on the touchline.

Thankfully for Liverpool fans, Mac Allister was later able to continue after an assessment from medical staff and returned to the pitch wearing protective headgear.

But that didn't stop fans from sharing images from the moment, arguing that Oliver did actually see the injury, but still didn't react.

"michael oliver didn't see mac allister" pic.twitter.com/zH9otVh6WH

— joseph (@j0ee07) October 19, 2025

Reacting to the moment, one fan wrote: "Ref "didn't see" the fact Mac Allister had a head injury despite being on the floor holding his head."

While another added: "If Michael Oliver can’t see a player lay on the floor holding his head, after being clattered at the point of the ball, he shouldn’t be allowed to referee."

With The Athletic's James Pearce also criticising Oliver, writing" "Wow, Michael Oliver with a strong contender for worst decision of the season. Mac Allister brought down, FK goes the other way