David Moyes was visibly frustrated following Everton's 1-0 defeat to Arsenal at Hill Dickinson Stadium on Saturday, December 20, 2025, with the manager expressing his dismay over several refereeing decisions. The result, which saw Viktor Gyokeres' first-half penalty secure the win for the Gunners, was overshadowed by contentious moments that left Moyes struggling to contain his anger.

The pivotal incident that drew Moyes' ire occurred in the second half when Everton striker Thierno Barry went down in the box following a challenge by Arsenal's William Saliba. Replays suggested that Saliba had kicked Barry's foot, but referee Samuel Barrott waved away the appeals for a penalty. The decision was reviewed by VAR, but the on-field decision was upheld, with the Premier League Match Centre stating that the contact "wasn't sufficient for a penalty".

Moyes' frustration was evident as he engaged in discussions with Barrott at the final whistle. When asked by Sky Sports about their conversation, Moyes alluded to the potential consequences of revealing his true feelings, saying, "I'd like to [repeat it], but I'd probably be fined in some ways". He added, "It was a day where just a lot of things didn't quite suit and go our way. There was quite a few people going down injured. The referee was blowing up for them".

Former Arsenal player Alan Smith, commentating on the game for Sky Sports, also weighed in on the incident, stating that Saliba was "a little fortunate" and that "He did kick Barry's foot". Smith's assessment further fueled the sense of injustice felt by Everton.

Adding to Everton's frustration, Arsenal's penalty came after Jake O'Brien was penalized for handball inside the area. Replays showed O'Brien raising his arms while jumping for a corner, leading to the VAR intervention and the subsequent penalty.

Moyes acknowledged that his side didn't trouble Arsenal much before the penalty. He stated, "If anything we started better than Arsenal. But it was a poor decision by Jake O'Brien to raise his arms which made it difficult". He conceded that such incidents happen, but players "shouldn't be sticking your arms up there".

This is not the first time Moyes has been involved in controversy regarding refereeing decisions. In the past, he has been fined for his comments about match officials. In 2014, while managing Manchester United, he was charged with misconduct by the Football Association for criticizing the referees after a defeat to Sunderland. Similarly, in 2010, he was fined for improper conduct towards referee Martin Atkinson following a draw with Manchester United. These incidents highlight Moyes' passionate approach to the game and his willingness to speak his mind, even at the risk of facing disciplinary action.

The defeat leaves Everton searching for answers as they look to climb the Premier League table. While Moyes will likely face scrutiny for his post-match comments, the focus will also be on his team's performance and their ability to bounce back from this setback.