VAR Rant: Arsenal Manager Mikel Arteta Faces Charges

The Football Association has charged Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta for his explosive VAR outburst that followed his team’s contentious loss to Newcastle.

The Football Association has charged Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta for his explosive VAR outburst that followed his team’s contentious loss to Newcastle. Arteta called it a “absolute disgrace” and embarrassing that VAR decided not to disallow Anthony Gordon’s goal in the 1-0 loss at St. James’ Park earlier this month. “Mikel Arteta has been charged with a breach of FA Rule E3.1 following comments that he made in media interviews after Arsenal’s Premier League game against Newcastle United on Saturday, November 4,” a statement from the FA read.

“It’s alleged that his comments constitute misconduct as they are insulting towards match officials and/or detrimental to the game and/or bring the game into disrepute.”

VAR examined whether Joelinton had fouled Arsenal defender Gabriel, if Gordon had been offside, and if the ball had left the play before Joe Willock’s cross.

Despite the fact that Joelinton clearly shoved Gabriel in the back and the ball seemed to have gone out, all three decisions went in Newcastle’s favor.

Arteta could not hide his anger after the match, saying: “You have to talk about how the hell did this goal stand up? Incredible. I feel embarrassed.

“I have to now come in here and try to defend the club and please ask for help because it’s an absolute disgrace that this goal is allowed. An absolute disgrace.”

In the aftermath of their manager’s blast, Arsenal issued a statement the following day saying the club “wholeheartedly” supported the Spaniard.

“The Premier League is the best league in the world with the best players, coaches and supporters, all of whom deserve better,” said the statement.

“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.”