**Premier League Referee Disputes: 20 Controversial Calls This Season**

The 2022-23 Premier League season has been as dramatic as ever, and referees have played a central role in some of the most heated moments. From goal-line decisions to last-minute penalty calls, the season has been filled with moments where the referees’ decisions have sparked debates among fans, players, and even managers. Here are 20 of the most controversial calls that have dominated the season:

### **Top 5 Most Debated Decisions**

1. **The Burnley vs. Arsenal Goal Controversy**: In October, a late goal by Arsenal was controversially disallowed for offside after a VAR review. Fans and even some Arsenal players questioned the referee’s decision, with some calling it a “robbery.”

2. **The Chelsea vs. Liverpool Penalty Decision**: A high-stakes Premier League clash saw Chelsea’s Romelu Lukaku awarded a penalty after a foul by Liverpool’s Andy Robertson. The decision was widely debated, with Liverpool fans claiming it was a dive.

3. **The Tottenham vs. Manchester United Red Card**: A brutal challenge by Tottenham’s Cristian Romero led to a straight red card. The decision was hotly contested, with many arguing that it was too harsh, while others praised the referee’s courage.

4. **The Leicester vs. Manchester City Goal Decision**: A late winner for Manchester City was controversially allowed after a VAR check for handball. The decision came under intense scrutiny, with Leicester players and fans frustrated over the call.

5. **The Everton vs. Liverpool Red Card**: Liverpool’s Virgil van Dijk was sent off for a late tackle on Everton’s Anthony Gordon, leading to a penalty and a red card. The decision was widely criticized by Everton fans, who believed it was excessive.

### **Goalkeeper Controversies**

Goalkeepers have been at the center of several disputes this season.

- In the Everton vs. Liverpool clash, Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson Becker was accused of slowing down to prevent a clear shot on target, drawing a penalty.

- Chelsea’s Kepa Arrizabalaga was criticized for his handling in a late-game incident against Manchester United, leading to a potential penalty.

### **Fouls and Red Cards That Changed Games**

Referee decisions regarding fouls and red cards have often turned the tide of matches.

- A contentious foul in the box led to a late penalty for Manchester United in their thrilling comeback against Manchester City.

- A potential handball decision in the box against Arsenal led to a penalty for Chelsea, securing a crucial win.

### **Offside Decisions That Made Fans Scratch Their Heads**

Offside calls have been a point of contention all season.

- A late offside decision against Manchester City’s Rodri in the derby against United led to the cancellation of a potential winner.

- A similar decision against Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka in a high-stakes clash against Tottenham left fans confused and frustrated.

### **Other Notable Incidents**

- Referee Kevin Friend’s decision to play on during a pitch invader’s interruption in the Arsenal vs. Manchester United match drew criticism.

- A late injury timeout by a player led to a reprimand from the referee, with some accusing the official of favoring the opponent.

### **Conclusion**

Referee disputes have always been a part of the beautiful game, and this season has been no exception. While some decisions have been controversial, it’s important to remember that referees are human and often make split-second judgments under immense pressure. As the season approaches its climax, the debates over these calls will likely continue to dominate discussions among fans and analysts.

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