We lost because the ref can’t call an offside!” – Ruud van Nistelrooy fumes after controversial Man United winner.

Ruud van Nistelrooy has strongly criticized the match officials following Leicester City’s controversial 2-1 loss to Manchester United at Old Trafford last night. The Foxes manager was enraged after Erik ten Hag’s team scored a late winner in a game that featured two questionable decisions, which Van Nistelrooy claims directly impacted the result.

The Dutch coach, visibly upset, declined to shake hands with United manager Ruben Amorim after the match, fueling speculation that his anger was aimed not only at the referees but also at his counterpart.

Van Nistelrooy: “They won because of the referee!”

In his post-match press conference, Van Nistelrooy didn’t hold back:

“It’s so embarrassing that a team like Manchester United cannot beat Leicester at Old Trafford without assistance. Without the referee’s influence, we would have easily won. But, of course, it’s United at home, so they get the decisions. It’s disgusting.”

The former United striker further revealed that he had reported the officiating to the relevant authorities, pointing to two particular moments he considered dubious:

“I’ve already reported them for two things I noticed yesterday. They won’t get away with this, I guarantee. We all saw it. The first goal was offside. Clear as day. But they didn’t check it properly. Then, in the second half, we should have had a penalty—no doubt. But again, nothing. It’s ridiculous.”

What were the two controversial moments?

Van Nistelrooy was particularly angered by Manchester United’s second goal, which replays suggested may have been offside in the buildup. Despite protests from the Leicester players, VAR allowed the goal to stand, leaving the visitors seething.

The second contentious moment came when Leicester was denied a penalty after what seemed to be an obvious foul inside the box. Van Nistelrooy and his staff reacted with fury on the touchline when the referee dismissed their appeals, and VAR didn’t intervene.

Did Van Nistelrooy’s anger lead to a snub at full-time?

After the match, Van Nistelrooy was seen leaving the pitch without acknowledging Ruben Amorim, fueling speculation that his frustration went beyond just the referees.

Some believe the Dutchman was angered by United’s handling of the situation, possibly accusing Amorim of being complicit in the questionable officiating. Others think he was simply too furious to engage in any post-match formalities.

What happens next?

Leicester are expected to formally request a review of the officiating, though history suggests it may lead to little action. Meanwhile, Van Nistelrooy’s fiery remarks could bring him trouble with the FA, who generally disapprove of managers publicly questioning referees’ integrity.

This controversy is sure to intensify the ongoing discussions about officiating standards in the Premier League. As for Manchester United, they secured the three points—but their victory will always be overshadowed by controversy.