Premier League title race: Liverpool top standing
Arsenal are understood to have complained to the Premier League's refereeing body over the rough treatment received by Bukayo Saka.
The winger was the third most foul player in the top flight across 2023 with only Jordan Ayew at Crystal Palace and Newcastle's Bruno Guimaraes being scythed down more often. It is those high numbers that prompted the Gunners to raise the issue as part of a wider conversation with the officials.
Arsenal felt as though Saka was fair game early in matches, which has led to some tough challenges, before referees would step in with punishments for opponents later on. The north Londoners, according to the Daily Mail, suggested that the first serious foul on Saka should result in a caution, rather than waiting until a second.
The raising of the issue over Saka is arugably influenced by the fact Saka has carried an Achilles issue since last season. He was also forced off against Lens back in October when they faced off in the Champions League, which saw him out injured for a couple of weeks.
Mikel Arteta has previously told his academy star that he cannot expect referees to protect him from his tough treatment: "He needs to learn when to take certain balls, what to do with that ball, how to use his body, when to jump.
"There are a lot of things we can train but obviously it is very difficult to understand what the opponent is going to do. Wingers and talented players get kicked and fouled and get the demand to win games and that is the chance he has, that is his role in the team."
Arsenal are seeking more protection for Bukayo Saka
Arteta has found himself clashing with officials over the past 18 months and saw himself charged earlier this season after a rant at Newcastle. The Spaniard made his feelings known after a controversial goal was awarded, but an independent panel later cleared him of those charges.
Arsenal as a club have said this season: "The Premier League is the best league in the world with the best players, coaches and supporters, all of whom deserve better. PGMOL urgently needs to address the standard of officiating and focus on action which moves us all on from retrospective analysis, attempted explanations and apologies.
"We support the ongoing efforts of Chief Refereeing Officer, Howard Webb and would welcome working together to achieve the world-class officiating standards our league demands."
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