Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta intends to appeal the FA’s decision to charge him in connection with his comments criticising refereeing and VAR in the Premier League. Following Arsenal’s 1-0 loss to Newcastle earlier this month, the Spaniard found himself in hot water.
He slammed Stuart Attwell and Andy Madley for awarding Anthony Gordon’s game-winning goal. As a result, he called it “embarrassing” and a “disgrace.” Arsenal then published a statement in support of Arteta, before outlining a number of contentious choices that they felt justified his stance.
Just a few days later, before of Arsenal’s Champions League meeting with Sevilla, the boss doubled back on his remarks. Last Monday, the FA stepped in to penalise him, charging him with violating Rule E3.1.
An official according to The Sun read statement read: “Mikel Arteta has been charged with a breach of FA Rule E3.1 following comments that he made in media interviews after Arsenal’s Premier League game against Newcastle United on Saturday 4 November.”
“It’s alleged that his comments constitute misconduct as they are insulting towards match officials and/or detrimental to the game and/or bring the game into disrepute.”
Arteta has until Friday for responding to the allegations, and the manager, according to Mirror, will not back down and will fight the charges. The club completely supported their boss and even issued a statement to that effect, with Declan Rice also voicing his support for his coach.
Within the next 10 days, he might face a touchline ban or other severe penalties. Arsenal will be back in Premier League action on Saturday when they travel to Brentford. Arteta will remain in the dugout for the game if he does not get a punishment beforehand.
