Mikel Arteta, Arsenal’s manager, unleashed strong criticism on the VAR (Video Assistant Referee) system after his team’s recent defeat to Newcastle. The match ended 1-0 in favor of Newcastle, with a goal from Joe Willock, a moment marked by a controversial VAR decision.

The contentious incident revolved around VAR’s review of whether the ball had crossed the goal line just before Willock’s goal. Despite uncertainties and potential violations, VAR ultimately upheld the goal. Arteta voiced his strong discontent with this decision, labeling it as “shameful” and not in line with the standards expected in the Premier League, considered one of the world’s top football leagues.

Arteta, who has resided in England for two decades, expressed his dismay, emphasizing that such a decision would not have been tolerated in other prominent football leagues, including those in China, Japan, Italy, Portugal, and Spain. This incident rekindles the ongoing debate surrounding VAR’s efficacy and accuracy in football. Arteta’s remarks underscore the pressing need to address these concerns in professional football.

Arteta stated, “It’s a game you don’t deserve to lose. We lost this game because of a shameful decision. It’s really a shame that such a goal was allowed in the Premier League, which is said to be the best league in the world. I have been living in England for 20 years. Now I am ashamed of this matter.” “This decision is not at the level it should be for the Premier League. A goal allowed in the first and second decisions is accepted. Not the last time. Such a goal, China Japan, Italy, Portugal I have never seen it in Spain,” he said.

Arsenal performance and stats

Arsenal is currently 1st in the Champions League with 6 points.

In the last 3 games, it has won twice and lost once. In its last match, Arsenal won 1-2 against Sevilla.​​

It has a positive goal difference after scoring 7 goals and conceding 3.​

Arsenal will play the next match in Champions League against Sevilla on Wednesday 8th of November in London. The prediction is Arsenal winning the match.​

Newcastle United performance and stats

Newcastle United is currently 3rd in the Champions League with 4 points.

In the last 3 games, it has won once, drawn once, and lost once. In its last match, Newcastle United lost 0-1 against Borussia Dortmund.​​

It has a positive goal difference after scoring 4 goals and conceding 2.​

Newcastle United will play the next match in Champions League against Borussia Dortmund on Tuesday 7th of November in Dortmund. The prediction is Newcastle United winning the match.​