Mikel Arteta has launched a scathing critique of Premier League officiating after Arsenal’s crucial victory over Newcastle United, insisting that the title race would look very different if Manchester City had been reduced to ten men in last weekend’s showdown at the Etihad.
The Arsenal boss, speaking after his side’s hard-fought 2-0 win at the Emirates, pointed to a controversial moment in the 1-1 draw with City on 2 February 2025. He claimed that City defender Abdukodir Khusanov should have been sent off for a last-man foul on Kai Havertz in the 53rd minute, with the score level. City went on to win 2-1.
“It’s a red card today. It’s a red card in Manchester,” Arteta told reporters, referencing the consistency of refereeing decisions. “If that had been given, everything changes in the title race.”
Arteta had remained silent immediately after the City match, when the incident sparked little debate. Many pundits argued Khusanov’s challenge was a fair shoulder-to-shoulder battle. However, the Spaniard now believes the decision was a pivotal moment in the campaign.
Key Takeaways
- Arteta’s frustration: The Arsenal manager believes a red card for Khusanov would have altered the title race outcome.
- Controversial moment: Khusanov’s challenge on Havertz in the 53rd minute went unpunished, with City scoring the winner shortly after.
- Title implications: Arsenal’s win over Newcastle keeps them in contention, but Arteta feels aggrieved by perceived officiating inconsistency.
- Reaction delayed: Arteta waited until after the Newcastle match to voice his anger, possibly to avoid a misconduct charge.
Match Stats: Arsenal 2-0 Newcastle | Possession: 54% – 46% | Shots on target: 6 – 2 | Red cards: 0 – 0 | Referee: Michael Oliver | Controversial moment: Khusanov’s challenge on Havertz (53rd min, Man City vs Arsenal, 2 Feb 2025)
The Gunners’ victory over Newcastle, powered by goals from Bukayo Saka and Martin Ødegaard, propelled them back to the top of the table. Yet Arteta’s post-match comments were dominated by the perceived injustice at the Etihad. “We are fighting against a machine that is so difficult to beat, and when you have those moments against you, it becomes even harder,” he added.
Arsenal now sit level on points with City but ahead on goal difference. The title race remains tight, with Premier League leaders separated by just two points. Arteta’s outburst may invite scrutiny from the FA, but he appears willing to risk a fine to highlight what he sees as systematic bias.
“I’m not making excuses for our result at City,” Arteta clarified. “But we have to be honest. If that red card is given, we play 30 minutes against ten men and the game changes. We are talking about a different league table now.”
City manager Pep Guardiola has yet to respond to Arteta’s claims, but the incident is likely to reignite debate over VAR consistency. The Premier League has faced criticism this season for varying interpretations of fouls and red-card offences.
For Arsenal, the focus now shifts to their next fixture against Everton, where Arteta will demand three points to maintain pressure on City. But his simmering anger over the Khusanov decision suggests the title race will be fought as much in the media as on the pitch.
