A social media post by the Premier League’s official account regarding a disallowed late goal by Kai Havertz has sparked outrage among Arsenal fans.
With five minutes left in Arsenal’s match against Aston Villa on Saturday, Havertz believed he had scored to make it 3-2 after Mikel Merino’s deflected shot struck him and found the net. However, VAR later determined the ball had touched Havertz’s arm before crossing the goal line and advised referee Chris Kavanagh to disallow the goal.
The Premier League Match Centre released a statement saying: “The Arsenal goal was awarded on-field. The VAR established that the ball hit Havertz’s arm immediately before entering the goal and recommended that the goal was disallowed.”
The decision ignited heated debate online, with some Arsenal fans arguing the ball hit Havertz’s stomach rather than his arm. Adding to the controversy, the Premier League’s official account on X posted: “NO GOAL! @Arsenal think they have a third, but Mikel Merino’s effort clearly strikes Kai Havertz’ hand on the way in.” The use of the word “clearly” drew criticism, as slow-motion footage suggested the incident was not definitive.
Arsenal fans voiced their frustration on social media:
One fan said: “It’s an absolute disgrace. It’s happened to Arsenal again. This seriously needs investigating now. The ball hits his side, and even if it does hit his arm, it’s not in an unnatural position.”
Another commented: “Where? Where is the handball? Show me the handball!”
A third added: “Clearly? This is the official EPL handle… Wow.”
A fourth wrote: “I mean, this photo doesn’t show it hitting his arm. I’m not saying it hasn’t, but I haven’t seen clear and obvious evidence. THIS is what millimeter-action video would actually be useful for.”
A fifth remarked: “Feel so sorry for Arsenal fans. Clearly hits Havertz’s midriff. Even slowed down on VAR it’s clear to see. Go to Specsavers lads. I used to work there—I’ll get you a good deal.”
What are your thoughts on the incident? Let us know in the comments.
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