Fulham manager Alvaro Arbeloa has voiced sharp criticism against referee Peter Bankes following his side’s 1-1 draw with Manchester United on Sunday, September 20. Arbeloa alleged that several officiating decisions throughout the match at Craven Cottage favored the visitors, ultimately denying Fulham their first victory of the Premier League season.
The match, which served as the final fixture for both clubs before the international break, remained goalless through a competitive first half. The deadlock was broken in the 63rd minute when Lisandro Martinez redirected the ball into his own net, granting Fulham a 1-0 lead. However, controversy emerged late in the game after a challenge by Sander Berge on Harry Maguire at the halfway line. The referee allowed Manchester United to execute a quick free-kick, which transitioned into an attack resulting in a deflected equalizer from Matheus Cunha.
Reflecting on the result, Arbeloa told Sky Sports that he felt the officiating was biased toward the Red Devils, stating, “They don’t like Manchester United to lose.” The result leaves Fulham struggling near the bottom of the table, currently sitting in 19th place and ahead of Tottenham Hotspur only by virtue of goal difference.
In a subsequent press conference, the former Real Madrid manager sought to add nuance to his post-match remarks. He acknowledged that he was frustrated after missing out on a maiden win and admitted he may not have expressed himself clearly in the heat of the moment. Arbeloa emphasized that his focus has now shifted toward upcoming fixtures, noting that the intensity of such a draw can lead to raw emotions.
Fulham is scheduled to return to action on October 10 with an away match against Ipswich Town. On the same day, Manchester United is set to host Tottenham at Old Trafford.
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