Slow motion footage of Kai Havertz’s disallowed goal against Aston Villa has sparked plenty of debate amongst fans after Arsenal dropped points in the Premier League title race.

One of the major points of discussion from Saturday’s match in North London occurred in the final moments, when Kai Havertz believed he had scored to make it 3-2 after a shot from Mikel Merino deflected off him into the net. Havertz celebrated, but as several Aston Villa players approached referee Chris Kavanagh over a possible handball, VAR reviewed the play and determined the ball had hit Havertz’s arm before going into the goal. Consequently, the goal was ruled out.

In his post-match interview, Villa striker Ollie Watkins suggested that the call might have favored Villa, adding, “If that was against me I think I would be disappointed.” He added, “From that angle I’m not sure, but that’s what VAR is there for.”

The decision triggered mixed reactions, particularly after slow-motion footage of the incident circulated online. Some supporters shared Watkins’ view, while others felt the correct decision had been made.

One fan remarked, “This is genuinely not handball, hits his stomach. PGMOL gifting Liverpool the title, again.” Another said, “From this angle, it sure doesn’t look like it hit his hand. How did VAR miss this one?”

However, some fans were more critical of Arsenal supporters’ responses, with one commenting, “It’s handball and he knows what he is doing. This is just Arsenal fans once again complaining that the officials aren’t cheating enough for them.” Another added, “Hits the arm on the bottom and flies up. Damn, Arsenal out here defying gravity and logic.” A fifth fan said, “Am I the only one who legit thinks this hit his stomach and not his arm?!”

In his post-match comments, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta addressed the handball decision, saying, “Yes, I saw it. From one angle, it does not look like [a handball], and from another angle, it looks like a handball. The decision has been made.”

Arteta’s response highlights the uncertainty many fans feel about the incident, with differing opinions on whether it was a clear handball. It seems that the decision, upheld by VAR, remains in place, but it is evident that there is still division over the matter.