Iraola slams refereeing after Liverpool defeat to Arsenal, says players may need to go down for penalties

Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola expressed his frustration after his side’s 1-0 defeat to visitors Arsenal on Sunday in the ninth round of the Premier League, voicing disappointment that his team was not awarded a penalty.

Speaking to the BBC, Iraola said Liverpool deserved at least one goal but failed to capitalize on their chances, noting that the first 15 minutes—when they conceded—were below expectations.

The Spanish coach added that he was impressed with his players’ response after that period, as they showed more courage and attacking intent, putting pressure on Arsenal, but he acknowledged the visitors’ strong defensive display prevented Liverpool from scoring.

Iraola criticized the refereeing decisions, insisting his side should have been awarded a penalty after Alexander Isak’s shirt was pulled inside the box.

He said: “I think the penalty for Alexander Isak was very clear. Everyone saw how his shirt was pulled, and I don’t understand why it wasn’t given—maybe because he didn’t go down deliberately to win the penalty.”

The Liverpool manager lamented that players are sometimes forced to simulate in order to get decisions, adding he may have to instruct his players to go down in the future to get the calls they deserve, describing the incident as a golden opportunity missed for his team.