Arteta regrets the penalty decision as Arsenal are in the hands of Brighton

Mikel Arteta said he was “disappointed” with the decision to award Brighton a second-half penalty as Arsenal drew 1-1 at the Amex Stadium on Saturday evening.

Arteta’s side looked to close the gap on runaway Premier League leaders Liverpool, who play Manchester United on Sunday, but failed to get all three points on the south coast despite taking a first-half lead in through teenager Ethan Nwaneri.

The Gunners bounced back after the break as the hosts staged a spirited comeback. Fabian Hurzeler’s side were rewarded for their efforts when they were awarded a penalty after William Saliba attempted a header but instead caught the head of striker Joao Pedro.

The Brazilian took the counter kick and from there Brighton wasted a couple of half chances to win the game in the end.

Sharing the points in Brighton.

A chance to turn the page quickly on Tuesday. pic.twitter.com/OvxH20cvqa

— Arsenal (@Arsenal) January 4, 2025

But the Gunners boss felt referee Anthony Taylor’s decision to award the penalty was harsh.

“We are disappointed because we wanted to win the game,” Arteta told Sky Sports.

“We started the game with some good actions and scored a very good goal. We knew it was going to be a really competitive and challenging game.

“But we competed. It wasn’t our best day, especially with the ball in the second half. We have so many simple balls away that did not allow us to dominate the game.

“I can’t fault the effort, the intensity and how much we wanted it, but doing the simple things has to be right against a very good team. Today he was not up to the standards needed to win the game.

“And we are very disappointed with the way he (referee Anthony Taylor) gave the penalty. I’ve never seen that in my life. For me it’s a no-no.”

An Arsenal win would have moved them within three points of Liverpool. The Gunners are currently five points behind Arne Slot’s side after playing two more games.

But Arteta chose not to ask questions about his title rivals and instead keep the focus on his own players.

“Today we wanted to win the game and we couldn’t do it,” added Arteta.

“There are definitely things we need to improve. We are also very disappointed with the (penalty) decision and then we have to try to be better in the next game.”

Next up for the Gunners is the visit of in-form Newcastle in the first leg of the Carabao semi-final on Tuesday.