Credit: Imago

James Barker

Mon 11 May 2026 9:50, UK

Mads Hermansen has revealed that the West Ham United squad is holding “anger and frustration” after the controversial loss to Arsenal.

Indeed, the conclusion to Sunday’s match between West Ham and Arsenal is what everyone across the Premier League is talking about.

After putting up a valiant effort throughout the game, the Hammers were dealt a cruel blow when Leandro Trossard scored to give the Gunners a 1-0 lead on 83 minutes.

However, Nuno Espirito Santo‘s side didn’t give up, and when Callum Wilson slammed home deep into stoppage time, the London Stadium erupted as the Irons looked to have rescued a huge point with implications at both ends of the table.

But after a lengthy VAR check, referee Chris Kavanagh deemed that Pablo had fouled Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya from the corner, handing Arsenal a 1-0 win and potentially the Premier League title too.

What did Mads Hermansen say after Arsenal defeat?

West Ham’s disallowed goal has caused huge controversy, with many fans and pundits alike condemning the VAR decision to rule out the Hammers’ equaliser.

Not only does that one decision surely not fall into the realm of ‘clear and obvious’, exemplified by the fact it took a number of minutes for a decision to be reached, but it alters the landscape of the battles at both ends of the table.

Had Arsenal only taken a point from that game, that would’ve left them just three points above Man City with Pep Guardiola’s side having a game in hand.

Meanwhile, a point for the Hammers would’ve been huge to their survival chances, as it would’ve brought them level on points with Tottenham ahead of their Monday night clash with Leeds.

Taking to his Instagram after the game, West Ham goalkeeper Hermansen has revealed exactly what the emotions are inside the Hammers’ dressing room, but also sent a clear message of defiance and fighting spirit too.

“So much anger and frustration in all of us right now. So difficult to understand,” the Danish international said.

“We keep believing, we are all together. Stadium was amazing again today! Thanks for pushing us forward! Still everything to play for!”

West Ham have to weaponise Arsenal frustration now

Everyone connected with West Ham are furious after Sunday, and they have every right to be.

What can’t happen is for the coaches and players to allow that fury to consume them, rather, it must now be used as a force for good over these final two games.

Hammers players should be revved up after what they evidently feel was an injustice against them at the London Stadium, and Newcastle will now surely be fearing having to play an amped up Irons group this Sunday.

If West Ham do go down, that VAR decision will undoubtedly be a clear watershed, sliding doors moment, but if the Hammers can channel their anger, it could be fuel for two final Premier League status-saving results.