Arsenal dropped two points away to Brighton and Hove Albion on Saturday, and if Premier League leaders Liverpool triumph over Manchester United on Sunday, it will have severely damaged the Gunners chances of catching up with the Merseysiders in the title race.
Arsenal took the lead at the Amex through young Ethan Nwaneri in the 16th minute, but in the 61st, Joao Pedro converted from the spot to snatch a point for the Seagulls, and the penalty given to the home side has sparked a bit of controversy.
Pedro and Arsenal defender William Saliba competed for the ball, both going for it with their heads. Pedro got to it and Saliba didn’t, and then their heads collided. Referee Anthony Taylor thought about it for a few seconds, and then blew the whistle, pointing to the spot.
Speaking to the press after the game, Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta said he had never seen a penalty like that, though it should be said he believes Saliba did touch the ball. He also said he didn’t even have time to make his mind up when the penalty call got confirmed in the VAR room.
Mikel Arteta says he has NEVER seen a penalty like the one tonight given in his career 😲
Watch his full press conference: https://t.co/NK8LuoXP2I pic.twitter.com/gT4QXauqrM
— Hayters TV (@HaytersTV) January 4, 2025
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