Arsenal’s pursuit of the 2025/26 Premier League title remains on track, but a recent scoreless draw against Nottingham Forest has ignited debate over a potential penalty decision. The match, played on Saturday, saw the Gunners frustrated in their attempts to break the deadlock, ultimately settling for a 0-0 result at the City Ground. While the draw didn’t immediately derail their title ambitions, it did allow Manchester City to close the gap, following their 2-0 victory over Manchester United earlier that day.
Handball Controversy
The central point of contention revolves around a handball incident involving Nottingham Forest’s Ola Aina. Former PGMOL (Professional Game Match Officials Limited) chief Keith Hackett believes Arsenal were denied a clear penalty when Aina handled the ball in the penalty area. Hackett asserts that Aina deliberately moved his hand towards the ball, preventing it from going out for a corner, and therefore a penalty should have been awarded.
“The player has deliberately moved his hand towards the ball and committed a handling offence,” Hackett told Football Insider. “a penalty kick should have been awarded. You should regard the shoulder as part of the body, just like the foot. What we have is not a deflection off the body, but a deliberate play. A penalty should have been awarded.”
However, the Premier League Match Centre defended the on-field decision, stating that the ball struck Aina’s shoulder first and that his arm was in a “natural position.” This explanation has been rejected by Hackett, who disagrees with the assessment of the incident.
Arteta’s Frustration
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta also voiced his disagreement with the no-call, stating that the incident was a “clear penalty.” He expressed his frustration after the game, highlighting the missed opportunity to potentially extend their lead at the top of the table. Arteta lamented his side’s inability to convert chances, noting they had “four massive chances” to score.
“I saw it live, I saw it here, and I saw it now again. It is very unnecessary, but he brings the ball with his hand, so it’s a clear penalty,” Arteta said after the match.
Title Race Implications
Prior to the match, Arsenal held a seven-point advantage over Manchester City. The dropped points against Nottingham Forest narrowed that lead, leaving them just seven points ahead of Pep Guardiola’s side. Manchester City’s win against Manchester United further intensified the pressure on Arsenal, demonstrating the competitive nature of the 2025/26 Premier League title race.
The scoreless draw also marked consecutive 0-0 results for Arsenal in the Premier League, a situation they hadn’t faced since the opening two games of the 2012/13 campaign against Sunderland and Stoke City. This recent lack of goals raises questions about their attacking efficiency and ability to consistently break down opposing defenses.
Looking Ahead
Arsenal’s next challenge sees them face Manchester United at the Emirates Stadium. This upcoming fixture presents a crucial opportunity for Arteta’s side to regain momentum and solidify their position at the top of the league. The result of this match will be closely scrutinized, particularly in light of the recent controversy and the tightening title race.
The handball decision, while debated, underscores the fine margins that often determine outcomes in the Premier League. The incident serves as a reminder of the impact of officiating decisions and the ongoing scrutiny faced by referees and VAR officials. The Premier League’s explanation has not satisfied Hackett, who remains convinced that a penalty should have been awarded, potentially altering the course of the match and the title race.
Meanwhile, other transfer news has been circulating. Celtic are reportedly set to complete the signing of Lorient winger Joel Mvuka on loan, after renegotiating a deal following medical complications. They are also considering a move for Hibernian midfielder Miguel Chaiwa amid interest from Nottingham Forest for Arne Engels. Fabrizio Romano reported on Deadline Day that several deals were finalized, including Jeremy Jacquet to Liverpool, adding to the flurry of activity in the January transfer window.
referee Kavanagh is facing a review over incidents involving Wesley Fofana during Arsenal’s recent match against Chelsea, according to ex-PGMOL chief Keith Hackett, who wants action taken following the London derby.
