Altay Bayndir looking disappointed, with Arsenal goal in a circular inset
Credit: Imago / Sky Sports Main Event
Harri Burton
Mon 18 August 2025 13:30, UK
Altay Bayindir should have been stronger against William Saliba as Man United conceded the only goal against Arsenal, according to Keith Hackett.
The former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA official exclusively told Football Insider that the shot-stopper was “trying to find an excuse” for his mistake after Riccardo Calafiori headed home at the back post.
Ruben Amorim has already discussed a new goalkeeper signing following the Gunners’ only goal of the game, with Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha failing to score in the 1-0 loss on Sunday, 17 August.
Viktor Gyokeres flopped on his Arsenal debut, but with Mikel Arteta‘s side going ahead after just 13 minutes, they were able to hold onto victory until the end at Old Trafford.
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Altay Bayindir to blame for Arsenal winner
This article contains exclusive comments from ex-PGMOL chief, FIFA official and former professional referee Keith Hackett.
Amorim had chosen to drop Andre Onana despite the number-one choice recovering from injury, but that may have been the wrong decision as the Red Devils tasted defeat in their Premier League opener.
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Supporters are often frustrated when goalkeepers are overprotected by Premier League officials, but with the Gunners’ goal being allowed to stand, Hackett was more than happy with the decision.
Andre Onana Man United
Andre Onana was left out of the matchday squad. (Credit Imago)
United had a couple of penalty shouts throughout the game, but referee Simon Hooper decided against awarding a decision in their favour, placing the spotlight even more on Bayindir’s abilities in between the sticks.
Simon Hooper spot-on to ignore Man United cries
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former referee said: “When we look over the years at the holding and grappling which takes place, it is expected that in that situation, the impact does not really affect the goalkeeper dramatically.
“The goalkeeper is trying to find an excuse for what is effectively poor goalkeeping. Let’s allow the goal, and not go microscopic while searching for reasons to disallow the goal.
Simon Hooper
Simon Hooper has been commended for the decision. (Credit Imago)
“I support the referee in this one, but it is subjective. Another referee might call a foul, but what we’ve seen in the penalty area in recent seasons it’s not sufficient to rule it out.
“He should have been stronger, more dominant, because, look at him, he was surrounded by people and was flapping.”
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