Why the Premier League disallowed Kai Havertz’s goal for Arsenal

The Premier League has made it clear why Kai Havertz’s late goal for Arsenal was disallowed against Aston Villa at the Emirates Stadium.

It was a game that the Gunners looked like they would win easily at one stage, but two goals from Villa in the second half completely turned the game around.

Youri Tielemans and Ollie Watkins scored in the second half for Unai Emery’s side to spoil the fun for Arsenal.

The controversial moment of the match occurred late in the game when a shot deflected off Havertz and went straight into the net.

Arsenal players started to celebrate what they thought would be a legitimate goal, but the referee called them back and after a VAR check, their goal was disallowed as the ball hit Havertz’s arm.

The Premier League subsequently issued a statement on their X account, revealing why the goal was disallowed.

The Center for Premier League matches account published:

“Arsenal’s goal was scored on the field. VAR determined that the ball hit Havertz’s hand just before entering the goal and recommended that the goal be disallowed.”

#ARSAVL – 88′ TURNOVER

Arsenal scored a goal on the pitch. VAR determined that the ball hit Havertz in the hand just before entering the goal and recommended that the goal be disallowed.

— Premier League Match Center (@PLMatchCentre) January 18, 2025

Arsenal’s second half slump sums up their season

The Gunners once again missed several chances to finish the game and it later cost them two points in the race for the league title.

Meanwhile, Liverpool won their game with two late goals from Darwin Nunez to cement their position in the title race.

It was a game that showed the Gunners need depth in their squad as the only attacking option coming off the bench was Raheem Sterling.

It’s no wonder that they want to sign a striker this month, and they are linking him with transfer of Viktor Gyokeres from Lisbon Sporting as of Yoane Wiss of Brentford.