Following public criticism of VAR and officiating, the FA has requested explanations from Arsenal and manager Mikel Arteta, after contentious decisions in their recent match against Newcastle United sparked a strong response from the club.

The Football Association has contacted Arsenal and manager Mikel Arteta requesting clarifications following their public criticism of VAR and refereeing decisions.

This request comes after Arsenal’s loss to Newcastle United, where Arteta labelled Anthony Gordon’s goal being allowed to stand as “an absolute disgrace”.

Arsenal’s official support statement further emphasised their stance against “unacceptable refereeing and VAR errors”.

The FA’s inquiry seeks to understand the club and manager’s perspectives before determining if any disciplinary measures are necessary.

Arsenal prepare dossier for PGMOL after Arteta criticises referees

Post-match commentary by managers or club officials suggesting bias or questioning the integrity of officials can trigger FA charges.

It was reported on Tuesday that the FA were not expected to charge Arteta but that was before some in the media, after an apparent call from PGMOL, decided to wage a war on Arsenal and Arteta instead of highlighting the consistent errors of PGMOL.

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Ahead of the game against Sevilla, Arteta defended his remarks, insisting on his duty to protect his team and club with transparency.

“It is my duty to stand in front of the cameras and give a very clear and honest assessment of what happened in the game,” he said.

The Arsenal boss emphasised the importance of open dialogue to address and rectify issues within the game.

The Daily Mail, in turn, have reported this as Arteta saying Arsenal are ready to ‘revolt’ again.