PGMOL Expert: Arsenal Star Face Extended Ban After ‘Off-The-Ball’ Incident vs Newcastle.

Arsenal’s dramatic win over Newcastle United at St. James’ Park has been clouded by controversy after claims that one of their star players could face an extended ban for an alleged “off-the-ball” incident. The flashpoint, which went unseen by referee Jarred Gillett during the match, has now drawn the attention of refereeing authorities and pundits alike.

Former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA referee Keith Hackett has insisted that the moment must not be ignored and has called for an investigation. According to Hackett, incidents of this nature set a dangerous precedent if they are allowed to go unpunished, particularly when they could have had a major impact on the outcome of the game.

The Arsenal defender in question played a crucial role in securing the 2-1 victory, even contributing in decisive moments that turned the tide for Mikel Arteta’s side. However, Hackett argues that the player’s earlier clash with Newcastle forward Nick Woltemade “crossed the line” and fell into what he described as a “violent act.” If proven, the consequences could stretch beyond the standard three-match ban.

VAR, once again, finds itself at the centre of the debate. While the technology is meant to catch incidents missed in real-time, many have questioned why this particular altercation was not flagged for review. For critics, the silence from Stockley Park highlights ongoing inconsistencies in how VAR is applied, further fueling frustrations among fans, players, and managers.

Newcastle supporters have voiced their anger on social media, claiming the incident denied them a fair chance to press on and secure a result. Some pundits have echoed these sentiments, suggesting that if the Arsenal star is retrospectively sanctioned, it would validate the view that the officials missed a pivotal call. This, in turn, raises further pressure on PGMOL to address transparency in officiating.

From Arsenal’s perspective, however, any potential suspension would be a devastating blow. The defender has been a rock in Arteta’s backline, forming part of a partnership that has kept the Gunners within touching distance of the Premier League summit. Losing him to an extended ban would not only weaken their defensive structure but also disrupt the rhythm of a team fighting for silverware on multiple fronts.

As the dust settles, all eyes will be on the Football Association and PGMOL to determine whether retrospective action is taken. If Hackett’s call for an investigation is heeded, Arsenal could soon find themselves preparing for a critical run of fixtures without one of their most influential players. For now, the incident serves as yet another reminder of how fine the margins are in the Premier League—where one unseen moment can change the course of a season.