Mikel Arteta expressed frustration over the contentious penalty awarded to Brighton during Arsenal’s 1-1 draw on Saturday night, a decision later clarified by the Premier League in an official statement.
Arsenal had taken the lead through Ethan Nwaneri’s early goal, holding their advantage until the final half-hour when Brighton equalized under controversial circumstances.
The incident occurred as Joao Pedro went down following a minimal clash with William Saliba, who attempted to clear the ball with his head.
After a lengthy review, referee Anthony Taylor awarded the penalty, a decision upheld by VAR. The Premier League later explained why Saliba’s actions led to the penalty, a moment that could prove significant in Arsenal’s title ambitions.
“The referee’s call of penalty for a foul by Saliba on João Pedro was checked and confirmed by VAR, who deemed there was sufficient contact for a penalty,” a statement published on the Premier League Match Centre’s X account read.