Arsenal supports manager Arteta’s anger at referee during game

Mikel Arteta, manager of Arsenal, was mad at the referee calls that cost them the Premier League game against Newcastle United at St. James Park in Newcastle, England, on November 4.

“It’s incredible we have to talk about the result,” Arteta said after the 1-0 loss. “We have to talk about how the hell this goal stands up. I feel embarrassed. It is an absolute disgrace this goal is allowed. It’s not a goal – for many reasons.”

The goal was scored in the 64th minute by Anthony Gordon who was assisted by Joelinton. What made it controversial was that Joelinton seemed to have committed a handball and pushed Gabriel Magalhaes from behind when they were competing for the ball. The video assistant referee (VAR) stepped in and awarded Newcastle the goal.

“There is so much at stake, it is so difficult to compete at this level,” Arteta said. “It is a disgrace. I have been more than 20 years in this country and it is nowhere near the level of the best league of the world.”

“I don’t care what they [Premier League] say. It’s too late,” he added. “I have to stand here and explain. We lost three points. There is too much at stake, it is embarrassing.”

Arteta has Arsenal’s support for his comments via a statement released by the Gunners on Sunday.

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

Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) is the organization that oversees refereeing in England.