Multiple leading Premier League clubs are preparing to confront PGMOL chief Howard Webb regarding subpar officiating during the current season.
Premier League referees are facing intense criticism just five matches into the 2024/25 season, as several controversial officiating decisions have left prominent clubs like Arsenal and Manchester City outraged.
According to The Times, these clubs are preparing to confront Howard Webb, chief of Professional Game Match Officials Ltd to express their discontent.
The discontent primarily stems from the officiating in the high-stakes match between Arsenal and Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday.
Arsenal’s frustrations center around referee Michael Oliver’s decision to issue a second yellow card to Leandro Trossard for kicking the ball, which led to his dismissal in the first half.
They are questioning why Manchester City’s Jeremy Doku escaped similar punishment for a comparable action earlier in the match.
On the other hand, Manchester City is bewildered by the referee’s handling of the sequence leading up to Riccardo Calafiori’s equaliser, which they believe was marred by a lack of proper officiating.
The scrutiny of refereeing standards has prompted PGMOL to take action against Anthony Taylor, who was notably sidelined from officiating any of the ten matches played last weekend.
This decision followed his controversial performance in Chelsea’s heated victory over Bournemouth, where he brandished a record-setting 14 yellow cards, resulting in significant backlash and social media criticism.
As the Premier League gears up for another thrilling weekend, fans are eagerly anticipating Newcastle United’s clash with reigning champions Manchester City on Saturday, hoping for a more favorable officiating experience this time around.