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Mikel Arteta reacts to Sunderland penalty controversy after Arsenal win

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 18, 2026, 3:26 PM

Last updated Sep 18, 2026

Mikel Arteta reacts to Sunderland penalty controversy after Arsenal win

Summary

Mikel Arteta expressed his frustration after Arsenal's 2-0 victory over Sunderland on September 17, where a controversial penalty was awarded to Sunderland with the score still level. The spot-kick, awarded for Ezri Konsa's challenge on Dan Ballard, was saved by David Raya, preserving the Gunners' lead from goals by Bruno Guimarães and Bukayo Saka. Arteta labeled the penalty decision 'unacceptable' and suggested it could impact the season's outcome. Pro Ref has since contacted Arsenal regarding the incident, though Arteta declined to share further details, emphasizing the need to improve officiating standards in football.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Arsenal won 2-0 against Sunderland on September 17.
•David Raya saved a penalty from Enzo Le Fée.
•Arteta criticized the penalty decision as 'unacceptable'.
•Pro Ref reached out to Arsenal following the incident.
•The penalty was awarded after a challenge by Ezri Konsa.

Latest Updates

3:26 PMYahoo Sports — Mikel Arteta confirms Pro Ref contacted Arsenal after Sunderland penalty controversy

What they're saying

"
Mikel Arteta was left fuming after Sunderland were controversially awarded a penalty in Arsenal's 2-0 win, with the Gunners boss calling the referee's decision 'unacceptable'
— Yahoo Sports

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