Arsenal returned to the top of the Premier League with a 1-0 win over Newcastle United, but manager Mikel Arteta voiced frustration over refereeing decisions he believes could impact the title race.
An early goal from Eberechi Eze proved decisive at the Emirates Stadium, lifting Arsenal three points clear of Manchester City. However, Arteta focused on a second half incident involving Newcastle goalkeeper Nick Pope.
Pope collided with Viktor Gyokeres outside the penalty area but was shown only a yellow card, with officials ruling that the striker was not in a clear goal scoring position. Arteta disagreed with that assessment.
“I have watched it several times. In my view, it is a red card,” Arteta told reporters. “These moments matter, especially in games like this.”
The Arsenal manager also referenced a similar decision in last weekend’s defeat to Manchester City, where Abdukodir Khusanov avoided a dismissal after a challenge on Kai Havertz.
Arsenal’s narrow victory leaves them with only a slight edge over City on goal difference, a factor that could prove crucial as the title race tightens in the final weeks.
Despite recent setbacks, including two consecutive league defeats prior to this match, Arsenal managed to respond with a disciplined performance. Eze’s goal came from a well worked set piece, providing enough to secure all three points.
“When it stays 1-0, the game is always open,” Arteta said. “We wanted a second goal but had to manage the game in other ways.”
Manchester City, who have a game in hand, remain firmly in contention and could yet regain control of the title race. Arsenal face Fulham next, while City’s upcoming fixture against Everton could be pivotal.
Arteta acknowledged the challenge ahead as Arsenal aim to win their first league title since 2004.
“It is never straightforward. The competition is very high and we have to keep focusing on what we can control,” he said.
Attention now turns to Europe, with Arsenal preparing to face Atlético Madrid in the Champions League semi final. Arteta said both Eze and Havertz are being assessed after picking up minor muscle issues.
“We will monitor them and see if they are available,” he added.
