Fulham manager Alvaro Arbeloa has been charged with misconduct by the Football Association for comments he made about referees after his team's 1-1 draw with Manchester United. The charge relates to his post-match suggestion that officials would not let United lose at Craven Cottage last Sunday.
Arbeloa questioned a key decision by referee Peter Bankes in the 89th minute, which led to Matheus Cunha's deflected equaliser for United. "The foul against Maguire, a guy that is 100 kilos?" Arbeloa said in a television interview. He went further, stating, "Every decision was for them and after the game against Man City they [won't] let Manchester United lose here." The FA alleges these remarks implied bias and questioned the official's integrity, constituting improper conduct.
The match context
The draw left Manchester United in the Premier League standings. Fulham had taken the lead early in the second half through a Lisandro Martínez own goal before United's late reply. The result continued a patchy start to the season for Michael Carrick's side. The team's full stats reflect this inconsistent opening, with the late goal at Fulham salvaging a point.
FA response and next steps
The FA confirmed Arbeloa has been formally charged and must respond by Thursday. The controversy adds to the scrutiny on officiating, coming a week after United's derby defeat to Manchester City. United now turn their focus to their next fixtures, a home match against Tottenham, as they look to improve their league position.
The report in full is at Daily Mail Sport
