Two disputed refereeing decisions in Arsenal's 1-0 win at Liverpool have revived claims of favourable treatment for the reigning champions from the referees' body, PGMOL. Rival fans say the calls at Anfield on Sunday, November 1, 2026, went Arsenal's way.

According to K24, the criticism has fuelled claims of an ongoing "love affair" between Arsenal and PGMOL. That is a view held by some fans, not an established fact.

The first call came in the first half. Liverpool felt aggrieved not to get a penalty when Jurrien Timber pulled Alexander Isak's shirt, but VAR chose not to overturn the decision. Former Premier League referee Mark Halsey called it a clear penalty and said he was amazed that VAR did not get involved. Reports indicate Liverpool boss Andoni Iraola also questioned the decision. He said he would tell Isak to make more of contact in future.

The second call came late in the match. Noni Madueke escaped a second yellow card after an incident with Alexis Mac Allister. Madueke had been booked in the 55th minute. The Premier League said VAR checked the incident and judged that the contact was not violent.

Kai Havertz scored early to give Arsenal their first win at Liverpool in 14 years. Arsenal moved three points clear at the top, while Liverpool stayed fifth, nine points behind.

Not all criticism has gone one way. Reports indicate that some observers also questioned decisions involving Liverpool's Trey Nyoni, who Halsey said could have received two yellow cards.

Both sides now turn to Champions League action, with Arsenal visiting Slavia Prague and Liverpool travelling to Fenerbahce.

Source: https://www.facebook.com/share/19oBFudUdt/