Mikel Arteta has claimed Arsenal were on the receiving end of poor refereeing decisions in back-to-back matches against Manchester City and Newcastle United.
The Arsenal manager did not hold back after seeing his side drop points in two crucial Premier League fixtures. Speaking after the Newcastle game, Arteta pointed to specific moments that he believes went against his team.
“We have been on the wrong side of key calls in both matches,” Arteta said. “Against Manchester City and then against Newcastle, there were decisions that had a direct impact on the result.”
The first incident came in the 2-2 draw with Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium on September 22, 2024. Arteta felt his side should have been awarded a penalty when City defender Josko Gvardiol handled the ball inside the box. The referee waved play on, and VAR did not intervene.
“It was a clear handball,” Arteta insisted. “Everyone saw it. I do not understand how that was not given.”
Then came the 1-0 defeat to Newcastle United at St James’ Park on November 2, 2024. Arteta was furious after Anthony Gordon’s winning goal was allowed to stand despite what he saw as a foul on Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya in the build-up.
“The goalkeeper is blocked. That is a foul in any area of the pitch,” Arteta said. “We feel let down by the officials in these two big games.”
The Arsenal boss also referenced a controversial red card shown to Declan Rice during the 1-1 draw with Brighton on August 31, 2024. Rice was sent off for a second yellow card after kicking the ball away, a decision Arteta described as “inconsistent” with how other similar incidents have been handled this season.
“We are not making excuses,” Arteta added. “But when these decisions keep happening, it is hard to accept. We want fair competition.”
Arsenal currently sit third in the Premier League table, five points behind leaders Liverpool after 10 matches. Arteta’s comments come as pressure builds on refereeing standards in English football this season.
The Premier League has not yet responded to Arteta’s latest remarks. However, the Arsenal manager made it clear he expects better from match officials going forward.
“We just want consistency,” Arteta said. “That is all we ask for.”
