Arsenal is set to receive clarification on the VAR controversy in their recent match against Newcastle. The PGMOL plans to release the VAR audio from the game on Tuesday, providing insight into the decisions made. This move is part of the “Match Officials Mic’d Up” initiative, a monthly show hosted by Michael Owen and referee chief Howard Webb, aiming to enhance transparency in refereeing decisions amid rising tensions. The show previously featured Arsenal in a spotlight on Mateo Kovacic’s challenges in a match against Manchester City. In the upcoming episode, the focus will shift to Arsenal’s defeat to Newcastle, where decisions regarding challenges by Kai Havertz and Bruno Guimaraes, potential red cards, and the winning goal for Newcastle faced public scrutiny. The three checks for the goal, involving considerations of the ball going out of play, a possible foul, and offside, did not yield conclusive evidence, resulting in the goal standing.
The judgment was less than ideal for Mikel Arteta, who slammed the referees, stating, “It’s a disgrace, it’s embarrassing.” That’s how I feel, and how everyone else feels in that [dressing] room. You have no idea how many messages we’ve received stating that this cannot continue. It’s humiliating. Sorry for the embarrassment.”
“I feel sick,” he continued. That’s exactly how I feel. I’m sick to be a part of this. It is insufficient, and we will not accept it.” The decisions have increased focus on referees in recent months, with many hoping that the audio release may throw some light on the situation.
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