In a truly astonishing moment during Everton's Premier League clash with Manchester United, midfielder Idrissa Gueye was dismissed for slapping his own teammate, Michael Keane. The incident occurred in the 13th minute at Old Trafford, leaving the Toffees to play with ten men for over 80 minutes.
The Moment of Madness at Old Trafford
The match was turned on its head early on when Idrissa Gueye was shown a straight red card by the referee. The Senegalese international inexplicably raised his hand and struck defender Michael Keane across the face. Despite this massive setback, David Moyes's team displayed incredible resilience to secure a 1-0 victory against the odds.
Shortly after the dismissal, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall scored the only goal of the game. Everton then put on a defensive masterclass, managing to hold onto their lead despite having just 30% possession and facing 25 shots from Manchester United. Goalkeeper Jordan Pickford was crucial, making a vital save from Joshua Zirkzee to preserve the clean sheet and the three points.
Reaction and Fallout from the Red Card
Former Everton and Aston Villa defender Joleon Lescott, who was teammates with Gueye, has since revealed details of a private conversation with the midfielder. Speaking on the In The Mixer podcast, Lescott said, "We've seen it with Idrissa as well, and I spoke to him after that and he was like, 'That was so out of character.'"
Lescott offered reassurance to his former colleague, stating that such out-of-character moments can happen to anyone. The sentiment was echoed by former England goalkeeper Joe Hart, who suggested on the same podcast that the red card, while shocking, may have inadvertently galvanised the team. "Actually, in the hindsight of them winning the game, it's a massive moment. It can be a really big moment, good moment," Hart commented.
Apology and Consequences for Gueye
Following the match, Gueye issued a public apology on social media, taking full responsibility for his actions. "I want to apologise first to Michael Keane," he wrote. "I take full responsibility for my reaction. I also apologise to my teammates, the staff, the fans and the club."
He added that the incident did not reflect his values and promised it would never happen again. Despite the apology, Gueye must now serve a three-match suspension, ruling him out of crucial fixtures against Newcastle, Bournemouth, and Nottingham Forest. In all probability, he will then link up with the Senegal national team for the Africa Cup of Nations.
Everton's ability to secure a victory under such extraordinary circumstances at Old Trafford will be remembered as a testament to their team spirit and defensive fortitude, even as the bizarre incident involving two of their own players dominates the headlines.
