Arsenal plans to contact the Football Association's refereeing body, Pro Ref, regarding a penalty decision awarded against them in their recent victory over Sunderland. The incident in question involved defender Ezri Konsa, who was penalized for excessive holding on Sunderland captain Dan Ballard inside the penalty area.
The Premier League champions, who secured a win in the match, are seeking clarity on the decision, which was upheld by the Video Assistant Referee (VAR). Manager Mikel Arteta expressed his frustration post-match, stating the call was unacceptable at the professional level and could significantly impact the league standings.
"This is not acceptable at this level," Arteta said. "I watched it 20 times and I cannot find a way to understand how they think to give a penalty in that situation, or the way the VAR has to intervene."
He further emphasized the gravity of such decisions, noting, "So I don't know what to think. I'm sad that we have to discuss this after such a beautiful game, that at this level has the gravity of that. Because that changes the course of the season and it can cost you the championship."
Former professional player Ashley Williams, who was a pundit for Match of the Day, also questioned the penalty call. Williams described the action as resembling a "perfect hip toss in judo" from Ballard, asserting it was not a penalty situation and suggested Arsenal should have been awarded a free-kick instead.