Arsenal statement supports Arteta's comments over VAR

Arsenal lost the match against Newcastle to a controversial goal by Anthony Gordon. The Gunners were outraged after the game as they claimed the goal should have been disallowed because the ball went out and also because Gordon was offside.

After the match the Spanish Arsenal boss showed his anger with the refereeing and the VAR room in the post-match press conference. "The result should not be what it is. Embarrassing what happened, how this goal stands, in the Premier League, this league we say is the best in the world," Arteta said.

"There's so much at stake, we put so many hours. The margins are so small. It's a disgrace. That's how I feel and how everyone feels in that dressing room," added Arteta. Arsenal have released a statement on their official website and social media in support of the fans at St James' Park and their manager over the comments he made after the game. "Arsenal Football Club wholeheartedly supports Mikel Arteta’s post-match comments after yet more unacceptable refereeing and VAR errors on Saturday evening."

"The Premier League is the best league in the world with the best players, coaches and supporters, all of whom deserve better. PGMOL (Professional Game Match Officials Limited) urgently needs to address the standard of officiating and focus on action which moves us all on from retrospective analysis, attempted explanations and apologies," said the Arsenal statement

"We support the ongoing efforts of Chief Refereeing Officer, Howard Webb and would welcome working together to achieve the world-class officiating standards our league demands," concluded the statement.

 

November 5, 2023