Arsenal fans might be biting their nails in anticipation of the North London Derby on Sunday as Mikel Arteta faces a reunion with a referee who has previously left a sour taste in his mouth.
The clash between Arsenal and Tottenham kicks off at 2 pm (BST), and Arteta’s troubles seem to be mounting even before the match begins.
The choice of referee, Jarred Gillett, might just add to his woes. Gillett, a 37-year-old Australian, has a history of controversial decisions that have frustrated Arsenal fans and Arteta alike.
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North London Derby referee's worrying record for Arsenal and Arteta
Gillett’s past encounters with Arsenal have been anything but smooth. Earlier this season, he annoyed Arsenal fans by overlooking a clear foul on Kai Havertz by Wolves’ Yerson Mosquera. The incident sparked frustration and left fans questioning the consistency of officiating.
Last year, Gillett made headlines during Arsenal’s match against Aston Villa. He ruled out a late Havertz goal for handball—a decision backed by VAR—and failed to award a penalty for a clumsy challenge on Gabriel Jesus.
Villa’s 1-0 win, thanks to John McGinn’s goal, was a major blow to Arsenal’s title hopes and Arteta’s frustration was palpable. The manager, watching from the stands due to a touchline ban, expressed his displeasure, stating that the decisions were “clear and obvious” to him.
As Arteta prepares for the derby, he will have to manage not only the match but also injuries to key players. Martin Odegaard and Riccardo Calafiori are sidelined due to international duty injuries, and Declan Rice is suspended after a red card in the draw with Brighton.
With Arsenal having secured seven points from their first three games, the North London Derby represents a significant challenge. Arteta will be hoping that Gillett’s decisions won’t cast a shadow over what promises to be a thrilling encounter.
