Mikel Arteta faces FA charges after explosive VAR rant

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has been charged by the Football Association over an explosive VAR rant following his side’s controversial defeat against Newcastle.

Arteta said the VAR decision not to disallow Anthony Gordon’s goal in the 1-0 loss at St James’ Park earlier this month was embarrassing and an “absolute disgrace”.

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MIKEL ARTETA

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“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,” an FA statement said on Thursday.

“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.”

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VAR checked to see whether the ball had gone out of play before Joe Willock’s cross, whether Joelinton had fouled Arsenal defender Gabriel and whether Gordon had been offside.

All three decisions went in Newcastle’s favour, even though the ball appeared to have gone out, while Joelinton clearly pushed Gabriel in the back.

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CONTROVERSIAL GOAL

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.

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“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.”

© Agence France-Presse