WATCH: ‘I feel sick. That’s how I feel’ – Mikel Arteta FURIOUS about Newcastle’s controversial goal that resulted in Arsenal’s first league loss of the season

Arsenal have lost for the first time this season.

WATCH: ‘I feel sick. That’s how I feel’ – Mikel Arteta FURIOUS about Newcastle’s controversial goal that resulted in Arsenal’s first league loss of the season

Mikel Arteta talking to the press. (Image via Sky Sports)

Mikel Arteta and Arsenal were at the wrong end of things at St. James’ Park. The Gunners were dealt their first loss of the season, but the game was not without controversy. Eddie Howe’s side took the lead after Anthony Gordon managed to force the ball into the net after a messy entanglement in front of goal. The goal was awarded and Newcastle hung on to their one-goal lead, thereby securing all three points.

However, it was heavily contested that the ball was out of play before the goal. However, VAR replays show Newcastle midfielder Joelinton ‘pushing’ Gabriel Magalhaes in the build-up to the goal. In addition to that, the ball also appears to hit the Brazilian’s arm. Following the game, an outraged Mikel Arteta spoke to the Press.

YouTube video
How the hell did this goal stand? It's an absolute disgrace that this goal was allowed.
Mikel Arteta said in the post-match interview

He criticized the refereeing, saying it wasn’t up to the country’s standards.

FS Video

Arteta also pointed out multiple reasons why the goal shouldn’t have stood and expressed that, for more than one reason, the goal shouldn’t stand. He concluded by saying he felt sick to be part of this, revealing his disappointment.

Arsenal dealt with first loss of the season by Newcastle

Arsenal were cruising in the Premier League before the game against Newcastle United on Saturday. The Gunners were on 24 points from a possible 30 in their opening 10 games. However, the loss meant that they fell to third as Manchester City and Tottenham went ahead. In a gritty contest, Newcastle managed to take home all three points.

VAR check of Anthony Gordon's goal
VAR check of Anthony Gordon’s goal (via X/@GunnersFan)

Arsenal had a tough time making opportunities in a match where Newcastle’s defense was solid. The Magpies almost scored with Anthony Gordon and Callum Wilson in the first half, but an offside call and a bad first touch kept the score tied. Later, the Gunners had a chance with Gabriel Martinelli, but his shot went straight to Nick Pope.

https://twitter.com/0nyebuchi_/status/1720894090525433958?s=20

Declan Rice missed a free header before Arsenal were finally punished. In a highly controversial goal, Anthony Gordon scored into an empty net. Joelinton’s alleged “push” on Gabriel and the question of whether the ball was out of bounds in the build-up remain up for debate. The loss, however, enraged Mikel Arteta, who said that this mistake cost them dearly. However, he also praised his players for their efforts.

In case you missed: