Arteta Steers Clear of VAR Dispute as Arsenal Cruises Despite Red Card
- Mike Johnshon
- 11 Nov, 2023
Mikel Arteta skillfully avoided a potential dispute with VAR following Arsenal's 3-1 victory over Burnley on Saturday, despite his team playing with 10 men after Fabio Vieira received a red card for a high challenge on Josh Brownhill.
This incident had the potential to trigger Arteta's frustration, especially considering his recent criticism of officials after the controversial loss to Newcastle.
Arteta faces a possible Football Association charge for labeling Anthony Gordon's goal as "embarrassing" and a "disgrace," given VAR's decision despite a clear foul.
However, Arteta refrained from further complaints this time, largely acknowledging the validity of Vieira's red card and focusing on Arsenal's win, which leveled them with leaders Manchester City in terms of points.
"With the red card... yes, VAR was right, he said.
"The referee was right. Really good decision, really positive from Mikel to speak about that! Good decision.
"Please ask me about VAR because today it was good. I hope that I'm on TV saying the referees are so good and I'm completely with them and being very constructive."
Brownhill equalized after Leandro Trossard's opening goal, marking Arsenal's 1,000th goal at the Emirates since their relocation from Highbury in 2006. William Saliba then regained the lead for Arsenal with a header, and Oleksandr Zinchenko sealed the victory with a spectacular volley.
Trossard played a crucial role for the Gunners, filling in as the central striker due to Gabriel Jesus' injury. Additionally, Trossard provided the corner that resulted in Saliba's goal, and his involvement in another set-piece set the stage for Zinchenko's impressive scissor-kick.
"I think he connects everybody. He's so intelligent," Arteta said of Trossard.
"I think he moves in ways that attracts people that generates spaces and options for people.
"Today he did that really good because it was so difficult and the spaces were so small to attack. He gave us a lot of threat and possibilities to connect and find spaces for us.
"He put your body on the line if it's necessary, and that was it. It's the 1 000th goal at the Emirates - a beautiful number.
"I'm very happy with him. I think every time you ask him to play whether it's wide or as a nine, it flows and he has a real threat. So I'm really happy with him."
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