Arsenal has voiced its concerns regarding the standards of refereeing in the Premier League, firmly supporting their manager, Mikel Arteta, who strongly criticized the VAR decision not to disallow Anthony Gordon’s match-winning goal in the game against Newcastle, referring to it as “an absolute disgrace.”
In an official statement issued by the Premier League club, Arsenal expressed their full support for Arteta’s post-match comments, highlighting their frustration with what they perceive as ongoing issues with refereeing and VAR decisions.
Gordon’s controversial goal, which proved to be the match-winner for Newcastle, ended Arsenal’s impressive 10-game unbeaten start in the Premier League. Arsenal’s statement emphasized their discontent with the state of refereeing and VAR errors that have marred the game.
The club’s statement read, “Arsenal Football Club wholeheartedly supports Mikel Arteta’s post-match comments after yet more unacceptable refereeing and VAR errors on Saturday evening.”
It’s evident that Arsenal believes these errors in officiating are becoming increasingly common and detrimental to the quality of the game. The statement also acknowledged the efforts and performance of their players and loyal traveling supporters at St James’ Park.
Arsenal made it clear that they consider the Premier League to be the best league in the world, boasting top-tier players, coaches, and supporters, all of whom deserve a higher standard of refereeing and VAR decision-making.
The club put pressure on the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) to urgently address these officiating standards, calling for a shift from retrospective analysis, explanations, and apologies.
The statement expressed Arsenal’s willingness to work with chief refereeing officer Howard Webb in their pursuit of achieving world-class officiating standards, which they believe the league and its stakeholders demand.
During the match at St James’ Park, Mikel Arteta couldn’t conceal his frustration as referee Stuart Attwell allowed the Newcastle goal to stand following a triple VAR check.
This extensive review aimed to determine whether the ball had gone out of play before Joe Willock’s cross, whether Joelinton had committed a foul on Arsenal’s Gabriel, and whether Gordon was in an offside position.
