Arsenal have demanded a meeting with Pro Ref over the controversial penalty awarded to Sunderland on Saturday, a decision Mikel Arteta described as "unacceptable at this level". The Premier League champions contacted Pro Ref on Monday to request an explanation after Ezri Konsa was penalised for an incident involving Dan Ballard at the Stadium of Light.
Arsenal Seek Answers from Pro Ref
Arsenal are seeking an explanation from Pro Ref over the penalty awarded to Sunderland on Saturday that Mikel Arteta described as "unacceptable at this level". It is understood the Premier League champions contacted Pro Ref on Monday to request a meeting after Ezri Konsa was penalised after an incident involving Dan Ballard at the Stadium of Light. David Raya made a brilliant save to deny Enzo Le Fée's spot-kick before Arsenal went on to win 1-0 thanks to a goal from Bruno Guimarães.
Arteta could not hide his anger afterwards, and other Arsenal officials are said to have been left annoyed by the penalty decision. During the meeting with Pro Ref, they are expected to question why the video assistant referee did not intervene when the referee, John Brooks, pointed to the spot.
History of Controversial Decisions
Arsenal are also likely to bring up the fact that the Premier League's key match incidents panel unanimously ruled that the club should have been awarded a penalty in their win at Aston Villa last month when Guimarães was fouled by Ian Maatsen. The KMI panel ruled last season that Gabriel Magalhães should have been shown a red card for violent conduct against Manchester City in April that would have ruled the Brazil defender out for three crucial matches in the title run-in.
Arteta said the decision against Sunderland "could have cost us the win and our momentum" after a 100% start, and Arsenal's fear is un
Key Takeaways
- Arsenal demand a meeting with Pro Ref over the Sunderland penalty decision.
- Mikel Arteta labels the decision as "unacceptable at this level".
- Arsenal will question why VAR did not intervene.
- The club will also raise previous controversial decisions that went against them.
Comparison of Controversial Decisions
| Match | Incident | Decision | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sunderland vs Arsenal | Ezri Konsa penalised for challenge on Dan Ballard | Penalty awarded, saved by Raya | Arsenal won 1-0 |
| Aston Villa vs Arsenal | Guimarães fouled by Maatsen | No penalty given | Arsenal won |
| Manchester City vs Arsenal | Gabriel Magalhães violent conduct | No red card shown | Gabriel available for key matches |
FAQ
Why are Arsenal demanding a meeting with Pro Ref?
Arsenal are seeking an explanation for the penalty awarded to Sunderland, which they believe was incorrect and could have cost them the win.
What did Mikel Arteta say about the penalty decision?
Arteta described the decision as "unacceptable at this level" and expressed his anger afterwards.
What other decisions will Arsenal bring up?
Arsenal are likely to mention the KMI panel's ruling that they should have had a penalty at Aston Villa and that Gabriel Magalhães should have been sent off against Manchester City last season.