The VAR has been the subject of mounting criticism in recent times, particularly after some controversial decisions. It all began with severe criticism during the Liverpool vs Tottenham game, and now Mikel Arteta and Arsenal have joined the chorus of voices expressing discontent with VAR’s decisions.
However, reports suggest that the refereeing authority did not take kindly to Arsenal’s reaction, deeming it “over the top.” Arsenal now intends to reference instances from past seasons to emphasize their frustration with VAR and its impact on the game.
Arsenal reportedly ‘at war’ with Premier League refs
Arsenal’s manager, Mikel Arteta, expressed strong disapproval of the decision to award Newcastle United’s winning goal on Saturday, describing it as “embarrassing” and “a disgrace” during an impassioned outburst. Subsequently, Arsenal issued a statement endorsing their manager’s remarks and emphasized the need for the PGMOL (Professional Game Match Officials Limited) to address the quality of officiating.
The club and the PGMOL are currently engaged in a dispute, with reports suggesting tensions between the two parties.
The Daily Mail reported that the refereeing authority was less than impressed with Arsenal’s reaction, characterizing it as “over the top.” Arsenal is said to be planning to cite examples from previous seasons to back their case.
One such example mentioned is the decision during their 1-1 draw against Brentford last season, where VAR failed to detect an offside in the buildup to Ivan Toney’s equalizing goal. This incident is expected to be referenced as part of their ongoing dispute with the PGMOL.
The Gunners also cited the example of Gabriel Martinelli’s wrongly disallowed goal against Manchester United.
Mikel Arteta expressed his strong disapproval regarding the Newcastle goal, stating, “How the hell does this goal stand? It’s absolutely incredible. I feel embarrassed. It’s an absolute disgrace that this goal is allowed. An absolute disgrace. It is not a goal, for many reasons, for more than one at least.”
He went on to emphasize the severity of the situation, saying, “Embarrassing what happened – how this goal stands, in the Premier League – this league we say is the best in the world. I’ve been 20 years in this country, and now I feel ashamed. It’s a disgrace, and there’s too much at stake here. We are trying to do incredible things and be at the highest level each week. When we’re not good enough, I hold my hands up and take responsibility.”
Arteta concluded by expressing his deep disappointment, saying, “The outcome is nowhere near the level this league needs to have and the way this league is getting competed in. It’s not good enough. I feel sick to be part of this.”
Former players slam Arsenal manager’s conduct
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has been likened to “a Mercedes version of Neil Warnock” as he awaits potential disciplinary action for his criticism of Premier League officiating.
Arteta may face a fine and a touchline ban following his outspoken comments after Arsenal’s 1-0 defeat to Newcastle United on Saturday. The winning goal, scored by Anthony Gordon, was surrounded by controversy, with VAR reviewing potential issues related to the ball going out of play, offside, and a foul. Ultimately, the on-pitch decision to award the goal was upheld.
Mikel Arteta was left fuming after the game, branding the decision as an embarrassment and a disgrace.
Former footballer Michael Owen criticized Arsenal for their statement regarding Mikel Arteta’s outburst, stating, “The Newcastle United v Arsenal game yesterday was a brilliant watch. Two top teams going at it.” He expressed his disapproval of Arteta’s behaviour, referring to it as a “common occurrence” that, in his view, does more harm to the game than any incorrect decision.
The Evening Standard reported that Gary Neville has also strongly criticized Arsenal for their statement, characterizing it as “dangerous.” He expressed his concerns about the club’s stance on referees and VAR, deeming it a problematic and potentially harmful position to take.
