By Michael Odegbe
Mikel Arteta was left frustrated on Saturday as Arsenal drew goalless with Nottingham Forest. The result was overshadowed by a late VAR decision that, according to the Gunners manager, cost his team all three points.
Despite dominating the match, Arsenal left the City Ground with just a single point – extending their lead at the top of the Premier League to seven points, but missing another chance to close the gap after Manchester City’s ongoing struggles in 2026.
The turning point came late in the game when the ball brushed the arm of Forest defender Ola Aina in the penalty area. VAR reviewed the incident but allowed play to continue, sparking fury on the Arsenal bench.
“Of course, we’re disappointed because we want to get points,” Arteta said.
“We didn’t concede a single shot, created four big chances, and a penalty wasn’t awarded.”
Arteta dismissed suggestions that Aina’s arm touched the ball, arguing that the defender’s arm movement was decisive.
“Yes, he touches the arm, but then he moves his hand to keep the ball in the penalty area,” the Spaniard insisted.
“For me, it’s clearly a penalty.”
Arsenal’s performance this season has followed a familiar pattern: control without a killer finish. The league leaders have struggled to convert their dominance into goals, a problem that has crept into their play despite their strong Championship position.
“We could have been better,” Arteta admitted.
“But when you create four big chances, you have to take them.”
While Arsenal regrets what happened, Nottingham Forest celebrated a valuable point in their relegation battle. The draw left Forest five points clear of the relegation zone, and their manager showed no mercy for Arteta’s complaints.
“You might as well call the game off if you’re going to concede that,” said Forest manager Sean Dyche, dismissing the penalty appeals.
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