The Premier League has provided clarification on why Kai Havertz’s first-half goal for Arsenal against Chelsea was disallowed during their tense encounter.
Havertz, facing his former team, believed he had given Arsenal the lead after Declan Rice quickly took a free kick, sending him through on goal. Havertz calmly slotted the ball past Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sanchez into the corner of the net, prompting an initial celebration. Referee Anthony Taylor awarded the goal on the field.
Havertz, in an emotional moment, cupped his hand to his ear, signaling to the Chelsea fans to remain quiet.
However, the celebration was short-lived as the VAR team reviewed the goal. The review showed that Havertz was marginally offside, having been ahead of Chelsea defender Levi Colwill at the moment Rice delivered the pass. As a result, the goal was overturned after the VAR intervention.
In an effort to increase transparency, the Premier League’s Match Centre, introduced this season by PGMOL chief Howard Webb, explained the decision.
Through a statement on Twitter, they clarified: “Havertz’s goal was initially awarded on-field. VAR checked and confirmed that Havertz was in an offside position and recommended the goal be disallowed.” This initiative aims to help fans better understand the VAR process by providing insights into major officiating decisions.
Arsenal entered this match under pressure after a string of disappointing results. They had been narrowly defeated 1-0 by Inter Milan in the midweek Champions League fixture, adding to a previous 1-0 loss against Newcastle United in the Premier League.
Arsenal’s last league win came on October 5, when they defeated Southampton 3-1, followed by setbacks, including a 2-0 defeat to Bournemouth and a 2-2 draw with Liverpool.
Despite these struggles, Arsenal remained in the hunt for the top of the table, especially as Manchester City experienced their fourth consecutive defeat, losing 2-1 to Brighton.
Meanwhile, Liverpool extended their lead at the top with a 2-0 victory over Aston Villa. Jurgen Klopp’s side had been the most consistent among the top clubs this season, while others like Arsenal grappled with injuries and inconsistent form.
Ahead of the Chelsea clash, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta received a crucial boost as key players Declan Rice and Martin Ødegaard made their returns. Rice, despite recovering from a broken toe, was fit to play, and Ødegaard, who had been sidelined with an ankle injury since August, also made his comeback.
Their availability gave Arsenal renewed hope in their bid to revive their league campaign.
