07 November 2023 , 22:30
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Mikel Arteta has insisted other managers are fully behind him as he doubled down on his views on referees.
Gunners boss Arteta branded the officials “embarrassing” and a “disgrace” after referee Stuart Attwell allowed Anthony Gordon’s controversial winner at Newcastle to stand.
Football Association bosses have now written to both Arteta and Arsenal for their observations on the post-match comments and club statement to back their manager. Arteta did not question the integrity of the officials but the FA rules do state they can take action over “prolonged or particularly unreasonable” comments which could lead to a potential charge and punishment.
But Arteta remains unrepentant while he also says other Premier League bosses feel exactly the same way about the standard of officials. He also stressed the need to address the issue rather than hide it away and allow it to fester to become a “stink in the drawer.”
Arteta said: “When we are in those (manager) meetings, when we are all together, we all share the same feeling, that’s for sure. Errors are part of evolution. The trajectory is never going to be like this (gestures straight up), there are always going to be bumps in the road and these things are necessary to improve the game in the right way.
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“But we have to talk loudly. If you have a problem and you put it in your draw, the problem is in the draw and it’s going to stink at some point. If you have a problem, let’s talk about it, try to improve it. That’s what we are trying to do. Nothing else guys.”
Arteta faced the press ahead of Wednesday's Champions League clash with Sevilla (Arsenal FC via Getty Images)Arteta’s comments did not question the integrity of the officials but the FA have been studying his remarks closely since the weekend and the refereeing fraternity are upset with the Spaniard’s remarks as they believe it could invite further abuse.
Arsenal’s club statement to support the manager has also drawn criticism and, even though it is not the first time they have been present, sporting director Edu and club director Tim Lewis were both in attendance at his pre-match press conference in a public show of unity.
Arteta added: “It was great from my point of view, I didn’t expect it. I said it’s my duty to stand in front of you guys and give what I think and then the club has got many options, and they decided to do that one.
“I really appreciate it. I think the players did, everybody at the club did. It showed again that we are one and ready for anything that comes across to fight it in the best possible way.”