Arsenal release scathing statement blasting Premier League referees after Newcastle controversy

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta didn’t pull any punches in his post-match press conference following his team’s defeat to Newcastle United at St James’ Park on Saturday. The Magpies won a tense clash by a solitary Anthony Gordon goal, which was subject to VAR checks for three separate infringements before eventually being awarded.

Referee Stuart Attwell and the team of VAR officials had to confirm Joe Willock had kept the ball in play before crossing into the Arsenal box; if Joelinton had fouled Gabriel Margalhaes; and whether Gordon was in an offside position when he scored from close range.

What did Arteta say about Gordon’s goal being given?

After a lengthy delay, the goal was ultimately awarded, leading to Arteta launching into a furious tirade at full time:

“It’s incredible we have to talk about the result,” the Gunners manager said. “We have to talk about how the hell this goal stands up. I feel embarrassed. I have been in this country for more than 20 years and this [decision] is nowhere near the best league in the world. I am sorry.”

When pressed on the fact the officials had taken their time to review the footage before making the decision, the Spaniard was even more scathing: “That makes it even worse. You just need to see one image. And if you have any doubt you can look at the second one. I have to stand here and explain. We lost three points. There is too much at stake, it is embarrassing.”

Arsenal: Premier League “urgently needs to address standard of officiating”

On Sunday, Arsenal released a strongly-worded statement offering their full backing to their manager and arguing, as Arteta suggested, that the Premier League “urgently needs to address the standard of officiating,” which is not befitting of “the best league in the world with the best players, coaches and supporters, all of whom deserve better.”

The full statement reads:

“Arsenal Football Club wholeheartedly supports Mikel Arteta’s post-match comments after yet more unacceptable refereeing and VAR errors on Saturday evening.

We’d also like to acknowledge the huge effort and performance from our players and travelling supporters at St James’ Park.

The Premier League is the best league in the world with the best players, coaches and supporters, all of whom deserve better. PGMOL urgently needs to address the standard of officiating and focus on action which moves us all on from retrospective analysis, attempted explanations and apologies.

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.”