Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola has confirmed that he will instruct striker Alexander Isak to “go down” in future incidents inside the penalty area after a controversial decision denied the Reds a clear penalty against Arsenal. The comment came after a 1‑0 defeat at Anfield, the first win for the Gunners at the historic ground since September 2012, when Kai Havertz scored the lone goal.
The incident that sparked the debate occurred in the first half when Isak attempted to head a cross from Bradley Barcola. Jurriën Timber pulled at Isak’s shirt, and the Swedish striker was brought down inside the box. Neither referee Andy Madley nor VAR official Stuart Attwell awarded a penalty, a decision that left Liverpool players and fans frustrated. Isak did not dive; he remained standing and even spoke to Timber after the tackle. The referee also declined a second penalty appeal following a tussle between Cody Gakpo and Christos Tzolis.
In a post‑match interview with Sky Sports, Iraola described the situation as a “clear penalty” and criticized the lack of a dive. “You hold the shirt, we can all see that he holds the shirt. Because he doesn’t go to the floor, you are not going to call the penalty,” he said. “If he goes to the floor, they call the penalty 100 %. That’s the problem we have with the game.” He added that managers should instruct their players to go to the ground in such situations to increase the likelihood of a penalty being awarded. “Yes, definitely,” Iraola confirmed when asked if he would tell Isak to go down in future.
Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk echoed the sentiment, expressing disappointment that the decision was not made in favour of the Reds. He noted that the match was monitored by 50 cameras and questioned why the referee did not see the foul. “Everyone has seen it. In the end it wasn’t given and we lose the game,” van Dijk said, before congratulating Arsenal on breaking their Anfield curse.
Arsenal’s victory moved them three points clear at the top of the Premier League table, while Liverpool remain in the hunt for a Champions League spot. The incident highlights the ongoing debate over VAR usage and the importance of player conduct in influencing refereeing decisions. Liverpool will look to adapt their approach in future matches, with Iraola’s comments suggesting a more proactive stance from Isak when challenged inside the box.