FA Charges Álvaro Arbeloa After Refereeing Criticism
The Fulham manager faces a misconduct charge after questioning refereeing decisions in the draw against Manchester United and suggesting officials would not allow the Red Devils to lose.
Álvaro Arbeloa's comments following the 1-1 draw between Fulham and Manchester United have gone beyond controversy. The Football Association (FA) has charged the Spanish manager with misconduct over his remarks about the officiating in the match played at Craven Cottage on September 20.
The FA believes Arbeloa may have acted improperly by making comments that implied possible bias and questioned the integrity of a match official. The Fulham manager has until Thursday, October 1, to formally respond to the charge.
The controversy emerged after Manchester United rescued a point in the closing stages. A deflected effort from Matheus Cunha in the 89th minute made it 1-1 after an own goal from Lisandro Martínez had given Fulham the lead in the second half.
Arbeloa Directly Questioned Refereeing Decisions
Arbeloa's frustration was particularly related to a foul awarded to Manchester United just 35 seconds before the equalizer. César Palacios was penalized for a challenge on Harry Maguire near midfield, a decision the Spanish coach believed was too harsh.
After the match, the manager told Sky Sports that decisions had consistently gone in favor of the visitors. He also referenced the controversial Manchester derby played a week earlier and made the comment that ultimately put him under investigation.
“After the game against Man City, I knew they wouldn't let Manchester United lose here.”
Later, during his press conference, Arbeloa softened his comments. The Spaniard acknowledged that he may not have expressed himself correctly in English and said he preferred to stop discussing referees and instead focus on improving his team's performances.
A Difficult Start for Arbeloa at Fulham
The incident also comes at a time of growing sporting pressure for Fulham's new manager. Arbeloa took charge during the summer but has yet to record a victory in his first five Premier League matches. The draw against Manchester United left the Cottagers still searching for their first league win of the season.
For Manchester United, the point did little to solve its own difficult start. Michael Carrick's team needed Cunha's late goal to avoid another defeat and reach just five points after five Premier League matches.
Arbeloa's response will now determine the next step in the disciplinary process. For now, the FA has formally charged the manager, but no final punishment has been issued.
Arbeloa Must Respond to the FA
- Álvaro Arbeloa has been charged with misconduct over his comments following the draw between Fulham and Manchester United.
- The FA believes his remarks may have implied bias and questioned the integrity of a match official.
- The Fulham manager has until Thursday, October 1, to respond, and no final sanction has yet been issued.
