‘Not acceptable’: Mikel Arteta calls out referee on Sunderland penalty decision
Mikel Arteta’s anger over Sunderland’s penalty decision overshadowed Arsenal’s hard-earned victory, with David Raya’s save proving crucial in keeping the Gunners on course.
Mikel Arteta has launched a furious criticism of the refereeing after Arsenal survived a major scare to beat Sunderland 2-0 at the Stadium of Light, insisting the controversial penalty awarded against his side was unacceptable at the highest level.
The Premier League champions were given a stern test by a well-organised Sunderland team, but David Raya emerged as the difference-maker when he saved Enzo Le Fee’s spot-kick after Ezri Konsa was adjudged to have fouled Dan Ballard inside the area.
Bruno Guimaraes then broke the deadlock moments later with a stunning long-range strike, before Bukayo Saka converted a late penalty to secure Arsenal’s fourth league win of the season.
Arteta, however, remained focused on the decision that could have changed the contest, saying: “I have been involved in football for almost 27 years, 28 years. It’s not a penalty in any case, in any game, in any context, in any league.”
The Arsenal boss also questioned the involvement of VAR and warned about the potential consequences of such decisions during a title race.
“This can change the course of a season, the championship, and it’s not acceptable,” he added.
Despite his frustration, Arteta praised Sunderland for making the match difficult and admitted Arsenal had to suffer through difficult moments before earning the victory.
Raya’s penalty save ultimately proved decisive, while Guimaraes and Saka ensured Arsenal maintained their perfect Premier League start and moved to 12 points from four matches.
