Just in 🚨:”Why did they neglect to perform that check? I believe they should consider relegating all Premier League referees to the Championship, similar to what they did with Anthony Taylor.” VAR is facing scrutiny as officials missed a crucial VAR review, allowing Newcastle to capitalize on the error in a 1-0 win against Arsenal.

Arsenal’s 1-0 defeat to Newcastle United left them regretting a VAR blunder, and head coach Mikel Arteta is likely seething about the ensuing events in a tense clash at St James’ Park.

The Gunners were in control of the match until a Kai Havertz challenge added to the tension. Despite limited scoring opportunities, Anthony Gordon put the hosts ahead in the 63rd minute. The goal was upheld after a lengthy VAR review, considering a potential ball out of play, a foul, and offside.

Although Arsenal dominated the first half, tempers flared when Kai Havertz was only booked for a 36th-minute challenge on Sean Longstaff. Subsequently, three Newcastle players, including Longstaff, were cautioned for dissent. Referee Stuart Attwell struggled to maintain control of the game in the latter part of the first half. Bruno Guimaraes appeared to elbow Jorginho, kicked the ball at Havertz, and pushed Declan Rice.

It’s intriguing to see how the Premier League and PGMOL will explain another VAR error after Bruno Guimaraes avoided a red card for an off-the-ball incident with Jorginho. Despite extending his arm to strike Jorginho in the head, no further action was taken after an extensive VAR review.

This incident occurred just days after Arteta stated that Arsenal couldn’t use VAR as an excuse for their 3-1 Carabao Cup loss to West Ham. Now, he was left lamenting its intervention, or lack thereof, in penalizing the team.

Gordon scored after David Raya misjudged Joe Willock’s cross, and Joelinton outperformed Gabriel in the air. VAR was supposed to review the ball going out of play, a foul by Joelinton on Gabriel, and offside positioning. However, there was no angle to draw lines against Gordon, so the goal stood.

Despite enjoying possession in both halves, Arsenal managed just one shot on goal, taking 11 unsuccessful corners. The team lacked Martin Odegaard’s creativity in midfield and Gabriel Jesus’ cutting edge in attack.

With this loss, Arsenal’s title aspirations took a hit as they fell three points behind City, who defeated AFC Bournemouth 6-1 at the Etihad.