Arteta unhappy after Premier League call ahead of Arsenal vs Man City?

Stuart Attwell’s record vs Arsenal – via Transfermarkt – correct as of 18/09/2025

This time around, Stuart Attwell will take charge of Sunday’s match. He will be assisted by Constantine Hatzidakis and Nick Hopton, with Jarred Gillett on VAR duties and Craig Pawson acting as fourth official.

Stuart Attwell was criticised for allowing Anthony Gordon’s goal against Arsenal in November 2023

Attwell officiating Arsenal’s clash with City is a Premier League decision that is unlikely to sit well with Arteta, who previously called an incident involving the referee a “disgrace.”

The controversy dates back to November 2023, when Newcastle edged Arsenal 1-0 at St. James’ Park, with Anthony Gordon scoring the decisive goal.

Gordon tapped in from close range, but the build-up was filled with questionable moments.

Joe Willock had kept the ball in play just before delivering the cross, though it was unclear whether it had actually gone out of bounds. Replays were inconclusive but many felt it should have been ruled out.

Joelinton then appeared to push Gabriel Magalhaes as he went up for a header, an action that prevented the defender from clearing the ball.

There were also questions about a possible handball by Joelinton and whether Gordon was offside when he scored.

Despite multiple reviews through VAR, Attwell did not call any of these incidents as fouls or infringements.

Speaking to Sky Sports after the match, Arteta did not hold back his frustration:

“I have to be here now to say it is not acceptable. We didn’t deserve to lose the match. We lose the match because of the clear and obvious decisions. It’s embarrassing. A disgrace. That’s what it is – a disgrace.

“You cannot imagine the amount of messages I got saying this cannot continue. I am wasting my time. We are wasting our time. I don’t want to be in the hands of people.”