Simon Hooper’s Big Game History Ahead of Arsenal vs Manchester United Clash
The Premier League’s opening weekend is set to feature a blockbuster encounter between Arsenal and Manchester United, with Simon Hooper appointed as the referee. Hooper’s track record in big matches has been a talking point among fans, especially given some of the controversies surrounding his officiating decisions.
Notable Matches Refereed by Simon Hooper
1. Manchester United 0–1 Wolves — August 14, 2023
Hooper was at the center of debate after failing to award a late penalty for Wolves following a collision between Andre Onana and Sasa Kalajdzic. The PGMOL later admitted the decision was wrong, and Hooper was removed from officiating duties the following weekend.
2. Tottenham Hotspur 2–1 Liverpool — September 30, 2023
A game remembered for a high-profile VAR error which wrongly disallowed a Luis Díaz goal. The PGMOL labeled it a “significant human error,” with Hooper as the match referee.
3. Manchester City 3–3 Tottenham Hotspur — December 3, 2023
Hooper drew criticism for halting play and denying City an advantage late in the game, a decision that became a hot topic in post-match discussions.
4. Arsenal 2–1 Tottenham Hotspur — January 15, 2025
The North London derby was another high-pressure assignment for Hooper. While less controversial than some of his other games, the derby atmosphere put his decision-making under the spotlight.
5. Chelsea 3–1 Liverpool — May 4, 2025
A top-six battle that required firm officiating. Hooper managed the game without major controversy, though several key decisions were debated by pundits.
6. Arsenal 3–0 Nottingham Forest — November 23, 2024
Hooper oversaw this dominant Arsenal performance without major refereeing incidents, showing his ability to handle one-sided games as well as tense encounters.
7. Liverpool 2–1 Wolves — February 16, 2025
Another fixture involving top-tier teams where Hooper’s officiating was under scrutiny due to a few borderline foul calls.
8. Everton 0–3 Brighton — August 17, 2024
A match featuring a contentious penalty decision that went to VAR review, further adding to Hooper’s list of debatable moments.
What to Expect at Arsenal vs Manchester United
Given Hooper’s history, fans can expect every decision in this opening-weekend clash to be closely examined. Both teams will be looking for a strong start to the season, and the referee’s calls could play a major role in the outcome.
Whether he delivers a calm, controversy-free performance or finds himself at the heart of the headlines again remains to be seen.
Reported by Zorama Peter Paul
