A social media post from the Premier League’s official account regarding Kai Havertz’s goal against Aston Villa that was later ruled out has angered many Arsenal supporters.
With five minutes remaining of Saturday’s game, Havertz was convinced he’d made it 3-2 after Mikel Merino’s shot deflected off him and into the back of the net.
But moments later, VAR established that the ball hit Havertz’s arm immediately before entering the goal and recommended to referee Chris Kavanagh that the goal was disallowed.
A statement from the Premier League Match Centre read: “The Arsenal goal was awarded on-field. The VAR established that the ball hit Havertz’s arm immediately before entering the goal and recommended that the goal was disallowed.”
It was an incident that brought plenty of debate on social media, with some Arsenal fans suggesting that the ball hit Havertz’ stomach rather than his arm.
Amid the controversy, the Premier League’s official X account wrote: “NO GOAL! @Arsenal think they have a third, but Mikel Merino’s effort clearly strikes Kai Havertz’ hand on the way in.”
The use of the word “clearly” was questioned as footage appeared to suggest the incident was far-from-convincing.
Here’s how Arsenal fans on social media reacted to the Premier League’s post.
One said: “It’s an absolute disgrace. It’s happened to Arsenal again. This seriously needs investigating now. The ball hits his side, and even it does hit his arm it’s not in an unnatural position.”
A second wrote: “Where? Where is the handball? Show me the hand ball!”
A third commented: “Clearly? This is the official EPL handle…..Wow,” and a fourth said: “I mean, this photo doesn’t show it hitting his arm. I m not saying it hasn’t, but I haven’t seen clear and obvious. THIS is what millimeter-action video would actually be useful for.”
A fifth added: “Feel so sorry for Arsenal fans. Clearly hits Havertz’s midriff. Even slowed down on VAR it’s clear to see. Go to Specsavers lads. I used to work there I’ll get you a good deal.”
