Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has voiced his frustration at referee Darren England’s controversial decision to award a second-half penalty to Everton, as the Gunners were held to a 1-1 draw at Goodison Park on Saturday — a result that dealt another heavy blow to their fading Premier League title ambitions.

Having taken the lead through Leandro Trossard, Arsenal looked poised to keep pace with Liverpool at the top of the table. But all that changed after the break when Myles Lewis-Skelly was adjudged to have fouled Jack Harrison in the box. Referee Darren England pointed to the spot, and VAR official Stuart Atwell opted not to overturn the decision — despite replays suggesting minimal contact.

Iliman Ndiaye coolly converted the penalty, bringing Everton level and shifting the momentum of the match.

🔥 Arteta: “No Way That Is a Penalty”

Speaking after the game, a visibly upset Arteta didn’t hold back:

“The referee decides to give a penalty that changes the course of the game,” he said.
“I’m here to give my opinion and, after seeing it 15 times, there is no way in my opinion that is a penalty. Because if it is, then [Jake] O’Brien has to be out, and Everton have to play with 10 men. That’s clear.”

Arteta’s comments highlight a growing concern among managers this season over the consistency and transparency of VAR decisions — especially in games where fine margins define title races.

💭 Opinion: Right Frustration, But Wrong Focus?

While Arteta has every right to question the penalty — as it did dramatically affect the flow and eventual outcome of the game — one could argue that Arsenal's inability to control the match after taking the lead should be just as concerning.

The Gunners are running out of road in their title pursuit. And although refereeing decisions matter, so too does composure, maturity, and resilience — especially in a high-stakes run-in.

The big question now: Is Arsenal simply unlucky, or are they mentally and tactically falling short again when it matters most?

🧮 What Next?

Arsenal sit 11 points behind Liverpool, with only seven games left. They’ll need a perfect finish and a few miracles elsewhere to remain in the conversation.

But if there’s anything we've learned from the Premier League over the years, it's this: Never say never — even when the odds are stacked.

Would you say Arteta’s outburst was justified? Or should Arsenal focus more on their on-pitch shortcomings?