FA opens investigation into Alvaro Arbeloa after Fulham draw with Manchester United
Fulham boss charged after saying referees “will not allow Manchester United to lose” following Mateus Cunha's late goal.
The Football Association (FA) has opened a formal investigation into Fulham manager Alvaro Arbeloa after his comments following the 1-1 draw with Manchester United on 30.09.2026.
Allegations and context
Arbeloa criticised the officiating after Fulham conceded a late equaliser by Mateus Cunha, saying that referees "will not allow Manchester United to lose." The manager singled out a contest involving Harry Maguire shortly before the leveller as a source of his frustration.
The FA says Arbeloa's remarks could be interpreted as suggesting bias and calling the referee's integrity into question, and has charged him accordingly. Arbeloa has until 1 October to respond to the charge.
After the charge was announced, Arbeloa sought to soften his stance, explaining: "My English is not very good. I may have expressed myself badly and I prefer not to say anything about the referees because you never know."
The investigation will determine whether Arbeloa breached FA rules on comments about match officials. If found guilty, disciplinary measures could follow in line with the association's procedures.
Photo: Real Madrid C.F. (X)
