Champions League: Harsh decision – Arteta explains why Arsenal lost 1-0 to Inter Milan

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has expressed frustration over what he described as a harsh penalty decision that led to his team’s 1-0 defeat to Inter Milan in their Champions League clash.

The pivotal moment came just before halftime when Arsenal’s Mikel Merino was penalized for a handball, with the referee awarding a penalty after the ball appeared to brush Merino’s hand.

Hakan Calhanoglu converted from the spot, securing Inter’s victory.

Despite dominating the second half, Arsenal struggled to break down Inter’s defense and failed to find an equalizer.

Speaking to TNT Sports, Arteta voiced his disappointment with the officiating. “I am very proud of my players and the level of control we showed. But we were harshly punished. If you’re going to give that penalty, then the other one has to be as well because he [Inter’s player] punches him in the head,” Arteta argued, referencing a separate incident in the box.

Reflecting on his team’s performance, Arteta added, “We should have scored at least a couple, but the way the team played—that was us. Every decision in the box makes a difference.”

Confident in his squad’s abilities, Arteta concluded, “With the way we played tonight, this team can go to Chelsea and win.”