This Saturday, Arsenal lost for the first time this season against Newcastle (0-1). After the match, Mikel Arteta had a big rant to rail against the refereeing. “The result should not be what it is! It’s a shame”Arteta protested at the BBC microphone. “It’s embarrassing what happened. How is this goal validated, in the Premier League… this league which is said to be the best in the world. I have lived in this country for 20 years and now I am ashamed”, also explained the Spanish coach. And it made noise.
And this Sunday, Arsenal supported their coach via a press release. “Arsenal Football Club wholeheartedly supports Mikel Arteta’s post-match comments following even more unacceptable refereeing and VAR errors on Saturday evening. We would also like to recognize the tremendous efforts and performances of our players and traveling supporters at St James’ Park. The Premier League is the best league in the world with the best players, coaches and fans, all of whom deserve better. PGMOL urgently needs to tackle refereeing standards and focus on action that moves us all from hindsight, attempted explanations and excuses. We support the continued efforts of Director of Officiating Howard Webb and look forward to working together to achieve the world-class officiating standards demanded by our league.” The message has gotten through!
