Steven Gerrard Tells Arteta to Pick His Battles After Controversial Penalty Claim
Former Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard has told Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta to be cautious about how he talks about refereeing decisions — especially following the recent controversy over a penalty incident involving Nottingham Forest’s Ola Aina.
Arsenal’s boss was left visibly frustrated after his side were held to a 0–0 draw at the City Ground, a result that came with plenty of drama. In the closing stages of the game, Arteta appealed for a spot-kick when it looked as though Forest defender Ola Aina handled the ball in the box. But after a lengthy VAR review, officials ruled that the ball hit Aina’s shoulder first and that his arm was in a “natural position,” meaning no penalty was given.
Arteta didn’t hold back in his post-match comments, insisting Arsenal were denied a “clear penalty” and questioning the officials’ interpretation of the incident — a stance that has drawn some criticism.
Gerrard, now a pundit, urged Arteta not to let refereeing decisions overshadow his team’s performance or become a distraction. His warning reflects a broader frustration among some former players and commentators that managers risk media trouble and league sanctions if they focus too heavily on officiating calls.
The draw saw Arsenal maintain their lead at the top of the Premier League — seven points clear of rivals — but it also highlighted some unresolved questions about how handball decisions are being interpreted by VAR and referees this season.
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