In west London, Fulham’s difficult opening to the Premier League season has brought an off-field complication for Álvaro Arbeloa, with the Spanish coach charged by the Football Association over remarks made after the 1-1 draw with Manchester United.
Fulham are second from bottom after taking two points from their first five matches, and Arbeloa’s position has begun to attract scrutiny. The club, however, have continued to back him as attention turns to the disciplinary case.
Quick facts
- Fulham have two points from five Premier League games and sit next to last.
- The FA charge concerns Arbeloa’s comments after Fulham’s 1-1 match against Manchester United.
- He was accused of questioning a match official’s integrity.
- Arbeloa has until 1 October to respond to the charge.
- A fine and a touchline ban of several matches are possible.
After United levelled late at Craven Cottage, Arbeloa suggested that the visitors would not be allowed to lose after what he considered their adverse treatment in the previous game against Manchester City. Those comments have now placed the former Real Madrid player in danger of punishment.
The FA said Arbeloa was charged with improper conduct after his post-match comments appeared to cast doubt on an official’s integrity. He has been given until 1 October, one day from the announcement, to challenge the allegation before any sanction is decided.
For Fulham, the timing comes just before a potentially important stretch after the international break. Their early fixture list has been demanding: Chelsea are the only opponent outside European competition whom they have faced so far.
The next run offers a different route out of trouble, with Ipswich, Hull City and Coventry City due to meet Fulham. Arbeloa will hope the focus can return to those matches, rather than the prospect of a fine or a suspension from the technical area.
