Arteta Furious as Arsenal Denied Penalty in Goalless Draw at Nottingham Forest

Mikel Arteta expressed his frustration after Arsenal were denied a “clear penalty” in a 0-0 stalemate at Nottingham Forest on Saturday, as the Gunners extended their lead at the top of the Premier League to seven points.

Forest survived a late VAR review when the ball appeared to strike defender Ola Aina’s arm, sparking controversy.

Arsenal remain firmly on track to end their 22-year title drought but have dropped four points in their last two league matches, missing the chance to capitalize on Manchester City’s struggles in 2026.

“Obviously disappointed because we want the points,” Arteta said. “We haven’t conceded a single shot, we created four big chances, and on top of that, there is a clear penalty that has not been given.

“It is true he (Aina) plays it with his shoulder, but then he brings the arm in to keep the ball inside the pitch, so it is a clear penalty.”

The Gunners’ inability to consistently convert chances has been a recurring issue this season, despite their dominant position at the top of the table.

“We could’ve been better, but as well, this is happening all around the league for every single team,” Arteta added. “We have to improve and be better, especially when we create four big chances, you have to put them away.”

Forest manager Sean Dyche offered a contrasting perspective on the Aina incident.

“You may as well cancel football if you’re going to give that,” said Dyche, whose side moved five points clear of the relegation zone.

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