Coach Mikel Arteta half-joked when asked about his view that VAR needs 10 years to fix imperfections like in the Premier League this season.
In a press conference ahead of the Premier League match against Burnley in round 12, Arteta was asked again about his comments attacking the referee and VAR team after the 0-1 loss at Newcastle. The Spanish coach stressed that there was more than one reason why Anthony Gordon's goal was invalid, calling the VAR's recognition of the goal a disgraceful decision.
Asked about his heated comments, Arteta replied: "I think we had a lot of reactions after that game. But it's time to move on, move forward, focus and talk about the next game against Burnley."
Arteta demonstrates passing the ball during Arsenal's training session at Colney, London on November 10. Photo: arsenal.com
On November 9, the Premier League’s Independent Key Match Incidents Panel ruled that Gordon’s goal was valid. The panel, made up of five people, three of whom are former players or managers, one representing the governing body, and one representing the referees, was set up last season to independently assess decisions, rather than relying on the views of referees or clubs.
Arteta is not concerned about who is on the independent panel, and is open to the possibility of joining it in the future. “It’s a possibility. Anything can happen in life,” he said.
Asked about his view that the Premier League will need another 10 years to fix the imperfections of VAR, the Spanish coach replied: "In 10 years I will probably be bald. Life will be very different, maybe the Premier League will have other new rules in football, so I don't know how long it will take to fix the flaws. Let's try to do everything we can, both individually and collectively, to improve the game in every aspect. That's all."
Arteta then gave an update on Arsenal's squad. The 41-year-old revealed that Jurrien Timber, Thomas Partey, and Emile Smith Rowe were all definitely out, Bukayo Saka missed the last training session and is doubtful, while Eddie Nketiah, Gabriel Jesus, and Martin Odegaard are "racing against time" to be fit. He added that Partey could be back in time for the Africa Cup of Nations in early 2024 and hoped Saka would still be able to join up with England next week.
Arteta insists Aaron Ramsdale - who lost his starting spot to new signing David Raya - remains a key player, but insists he will not stand in the way if the England goalkeeper wants to leave the club to seek playing time for Euro 2024. The Spain boss praised Leandro Trossard for his ability to play in different positions in attack and was pleased with Kai Havertz's contributions, despite the German only scoring once.
Today's match at the Emirates will also be an opportunity for Arteta to reunite with Vincent Kompany after a period of working together at Man City and winning two Premier League titles. Kompany helped Burnley win the Championship last season with 101 points, but is now second to last in the Premier League with four points.
Arteta praised Kompany as a top leader and said Burnley deserved better. "In the dressing room, Kompany knows the game very well," said the Spaniard. "Kompany speaks many languages and has the qualities to be a top coach. Kompany had an incredible playing career and had an unbelievable record with Burnley last season."
Hong Duy
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