Referee Arsene Wenger once called ‘stubborn’ appointed for Chelsea vs Arsenal

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Arsenal are set to head over to Stamford Bridge for a clash with Chelsea in the Premier League.

Arsenal head to Stamford Bridge this weekend sitting six points clear at the top of the Premier League, a position few expected at this stage. Even more surprising is that the team directly behind them is Enzo Maresca’s Chelsea rather than Manchester City or Liverpool. With both sides in strong form, Sunday’s clash promises to be one of the standout fixtures of the season — and now the Premier League have confirmed who will take charge.

Anthony Taylor, one of the league’s most experienced officials, will referee the derby, adding an extra layer of interest given his past run-ins with Arsenal and former boss Arsène Wenger. His appointment brings back memories of controversial moments that still linger in the minds of supporters.

Anthony Taylor to oversee Chelsea vs Arsenal

Taylor will lead the officiating team at Stamford Bridge, assisted by Gary Beswick and Adam Nunn, with Sam Barrott acting as fourth official. John Brooks will be on VAR duty, supported by Eddie Smart. The last time Taylor refereed this fixture was the 2020 FA Cup final, when Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal lifted the trophy — a moment the Gunners will hope to replicate in terms of result, if not necessarily drama.

However, Taylor’s history with Arsenal is mixed. He made headlines in the opening match of the 2013/14 season when he awarded two penalties to Aston Villa and sent off Laurent Koscielny during a 3–1 defeat at the Emirates. Wenger later criticised the “spirit” with which Taylor officiated, saying he was “amazed” by the referee’s “stubborn” behaviour throughout the game.

Wenger’s four-match ban after later confrontation with Taylor

Taylor was again at the centre of controversy in 2017, this time as fourth official during Arsenal’s tense match against Burnley. With Granit Xhaka already sent off and Arsenal clinging to a one-goal lead, Burnley were awarded a stoppage-time penalty. A furious Wenger confronted Taylor in the technical area, reportedly telling him, “You are dishonest to your federation,” and was accused of pushing him twice.

The FA handed Wenger a four-match touchline ban and a £25,000 fine for the incident. While years have passed, Taylor’s association with dramatic Arsenal moments ensures his appointment for Sunday’s derby will be closely watched by supporters on both sides.