Topics: Gary O'Neil, Wolves, Manchester United, English Premier League
Wolves felt they deserved a late penalty in the 1-0 defeat at Old Trafford, as did many fans watching the game. According to the manager, even the manager of the PGMOL agreed.

The 2023-24 Premier League season might have just kicked off, but fans have already been treated to a huge VAR controversy.

This came in the final game of Matchday 1: Manchester United's 1-0 home victory over Wolves. While the Red Devils came away with the three points, the visitors impressed, with many arguing that the West Midlands side deserved to win at Old Trafford.

And if that was not enough, a controversial refereeing decision denied the visitors a glorious opportunity to pick up a point. Gary O'Neil's side, who were 1-0 down and throwing everything at the opposition to find the equalizer, had a credible penalty shout in the final few minutes of stoppage time which was waved away.

This came after Andre Onana clattered Sasa Kalajdzic when attempting to claim the ball — the Cameroonian goalkeeper missed and slammed into the opposition player. O'Neil protested and while VAR took a look at the incident, the officials behind the screen did not deem it to be a clear and obvious error. Meanwhile, the Wolves manager was booked for his protest.

Here is a clip of the incident (video is geo-restricted)

Speaking after the game, O'Neil was measured and did not completely slam the referee. However, he made two admissions. First of all, the 40-year-old tactician remained adamant that it was a clear penalty. The second confession was shocking, however.

Speaking after the game, O'Neil revealed that Jon Moss, who is the manager of the PGMOL, admitted that it was a clear penalty that should have been awarded and thus apologized to the Wolves boss for this terrible blunder.

Repercussions have also been dished out. Michael Salisbury and Richard West, who were on VAR and AVAR (Assistant Video Assistant Referee) duties respectively, have been dropped for the upcoming round. Likewise, Simon Hooper, who was the match official, suffered a similar fate.

Regardless, Wolves, who many predict will be involved in a relegation battle this season, came away with zero points. While an apology in the wake of a mistake is always appreciated, the fact that Wolves left Old Trafford empty-handed cannot be undone.

Both sides will be in for tough fixtures next weekend. Pedro Neto and Co. will go in search of their first win but will play hosts to De Zerbi's high-flying Brighton. Manchester United, who were poor against Wolves, will travel to North London to face Tottenham that same day. Both games will be aired live on Peacock for fans in the USA. For more Premier League broadcast listings for your country, click here.