Arsenal were left frustrated after a controversial refereeing decision during their 0-0 draw with Nottingham Forest, with Mikel Arteta believing his side were denied a clear penalty.
The flashpoint came when Ola Aina and Elliot Anderson attempted to usher the ball out of play inside Forest’s penalty area.
Gabriel Jesus was nearby as the ball appeared to strike Aina’s upper arm.
Referee Michael Oliver initially awarded Arsenal a corner, but the decision was quickly reviewed by VAR.
VAR Decision Explained
Video Assistant Referee Darren England, alongside assistant Sian Massey-Ellis, examined the incident from Stockley Park.
After review, the on-field decision of no penalty was upheld.
The Premier League Match Centre later issued an explanation clarifying the reasoning behind the call.
“The referee’s call of no penalty to Arsenal was checked and confirmed by VAR – with it deemed that the ball was played off Aina’s shoulder first, while his arm was also in a natural position.”
Arteta Voices Frustration
Arteta made his feelings clear after the match, insisting the incident should have resulted in a spot-kick.
“The clear penalty that we cannot forget,” Arteta said.
“That is a clear penalty in the box that’s not been given.”
“Those are the margins.”
“I saw it live, I saw it here. I saw it now again.”
“It’s very unnecessary but he brings the ball in with his hand.”
Experts Offer Conflicting Views
Former FIFA referee and ex-PGMOL chief Keith Hackett supported Arteta’s stance on the incident.
“The player has deliberately moved his hand towards the ball and committed a handling offence,” Hackett said.
“Therefore, a penalty kick should have been awarded.”
“You should regard the shoulder as part of the body, just like the foot.”
“This is not a deflection off the body, but a deliberate play.”
“A penalty should have been awarded.”
Officials Defend The Call
However, former Premier League referee Mark Halsey disagreed, backing the officials’ interpretation.
“The ball does strike his arm, but in my opinion, his arms are in a natural position for that phase of play,” Halsey said.
“His arms are up, they’re coming down as the ball is coming down as well.”
“Yes it does strike his arm, but not a deliberate act.”
“So in my opinion, Michael Oliver and VAR got the decision absolutely spot on.”
“Not a penalty for me.”
Title Implications
Arsenal were unable to fully capitalise on Manchester City’s defeat earlier in the weekend.
They remain seven points clear at the top of the table, though that gap could be reduced depending on other results.
The controversial decision has only added to the scrutiny surrounding VAR as the title race intensifies.
