Forget Van Dijk’s mistake – Bryan Mbeumo’s goal should never have counted.
Bryan Mbeumo wasted no time in putting Manchester United ahead at Anfield on Sunday afternoon.
The Red Devils’ new signing found the net inside the first minute, leaving Liverpool boss Arne Slot visibly frustrated on the sidelines. However, there was immediate controversy, as many questioned why play was not halted when Alexis Mac Allister went down injured moments earlier.
Mac Allister’s Head Injury Overshadowed the Goal
It appeared clear that the incident should have stopped play, given the Premier League’s emphasis on protecting players from head injuries this season. The Argentine midfielder collapsed after teammate Virgil van Dijk accidentally caught him with an elbow during an aerial challenge with Mbeumo.
Footage shared by Sky Sports showed Mac Allister lying motionless as referee Michael Oliver allowed play to continue — leading directly to United’s opener. Unsurprisingly, Jamie Carragher voiced his disbelief during commentary:
> “I’m surprised Michael Oliver hasn’t pulled that back for a head injury. We saw a similar incident in the Arsenal game yesterday.”
Carragher also noted that Slot was clearly furious on the touchline, with the game continuing before medical checks could be made.
A Sky Sports still later showed Oliver had a clear view of the situation, intensifying criticism of the decision.
What the Rules Say
Under Premier League regulations, referees must immediately stop play if a head injury is suspected, allowing medical staff to assess the player’s condition before restarting the match.
Liverpool’s Defensive Collapse Adds to Frustration
Before kickoff, Van Dijk had warned that United’s summer signings could pose real danger — and his fears were quickly realized. Mbeumo capitalized on confusion between Van Dijk and Ibrahima Konaté, with the captain pointing for his teammate to track the United forward.
The mix-up proved costly, and while Liverpool’s defending left plenty to be desired, many fans and pundits alike felt the goal should never have stood given the seriousness of Mac Allister’s injury.