Arsenal drop bombshell statement, support Mikel Arteta amid VAR controversy

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Arsenal have released an official statement regarding Mikel Arteta's comments after the VAR controversy in their Saturday's Premier League match against Newcastle United.

The Gunners lost 1-0 against Newcastle United in the last match, and a controversial goal led them lose their first match in the Premier League this season. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta was furious with the VAR and went all guns blazing after the match.

"I feel embarrassed. But I have to be the one now coming here to try to defend the club and please ask for help because it's an absolute disgrace that this goal is allowed, it's an absolute disgrace," Arteta said after the match.

The goal that was given was controversial as the ball visibly went over the line. Also, there was a clear foul on Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhaes by Newcastle striker Joelinton. Despite all these red flags, the goal stood after a lengthy VAR check.

"Because it's not a goal, for many reasons it's not a goal, for more than one reason at least it's not a goal. And there's too much at stake here, we put in so much effort, and it's so difficult to compete at this level. And it's an absolute disgrace. Again, I feel embarrassed, I've be more than 20 years in this country, and this is nowhere near the level to describe this as the best league in the world. I am sorry," the Arsenal manager added.

And amid the controversy, the club has released a statement on Sunday stating their full support to their manager.

"Arsenal Football Club wholeheartedly supports Mikel Arteta's post-match comments after yet more unacceptable refereeing and VAR errors on Saturday evening," an official statement from Arsenal read.

We'd also like to acknowledge the huge effort and performance from our players and travelling supporters at St James' Park."

This is not the first time an erroneous VAR decision has affected the North London club. Last season, there was a clear offside goal of Brentford was wrongfully given against them, which played a massive part in Arsenal's title challenge.

"The Premier League is the best league in the world with the best players, coaches and supporters, all of whom deserve better. PGMOL urgently needs to address the standard of officiating and focus on action which moves us all on from retrospective analysis, attempted explanations and apologies," the statement from the club further said.