Tottenham Hotspur manager Roberto De Zerbi spoke about the foul on Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya during the 1-0 Premier League victory over West Ham United on Sunday.
The Gunners extended their lead at the top of the league table over Manchester City to five points after a slender win at the London Stadium. Leandro Trossard scored a late winner.
There was controversy right at the end. The Hammers believed they had scored a crucial equaliser deep into stoppage time, but the goal was ruled out for an evident foul on Raya.
Raya’s arm was held by Pablo Felipe, while Jean-Clair Todibo was also spotted pulling his shirt.
There has been a mixed reaction to the decision since. Several rival fans believe the goal should have stood, but De Zerbi is quite clear that Raya was fouled in the London derby.
Speaking after Spurs’ 1-1 draw against Leeds United last night, the 46-year-old tactician said it was 200 percent a foul on Raya and reiterated his stance on the VAR decision.
He told reporters (via Hayters TV): “Maybe the VAR felt the pressure after the West Ham Arsenal game. 200% it was a foul on Raya, not 100% but 200%, if you want to talk about football.”
There has been an evident frustration from opposition fans towards Arsenal’s successful campaign. Many feel that the Gunners do not deserve the league title ahead of Man City this term.
However, football is not played on emotions. The title will be won by the team with the most points on the table after 38 matches. The Gunners currently have the edge over the Cityzens.
Pep Guardiola’s side could reduce the five-point deficit to two by beating Crystal Palace in their game in hand, but Arsenal have their title destiny in their own hands heading into the final two matches.
Victories over Burnley and Crystal Palace will secure their first league title in two decades. A stalemate in either of those games could make goal difference a title decider if Man City win hereafter.
Stats from Transfermarkt