Arsenal forward Gabriel Martinelli has been cleared of facing any retrospective punishment by the Football Association following a controversial incident with Liverpool's Conor Bradley during Thursday's fiery 0-0 draw at the Emirates Stadium.
The Flashpoint That Sparked Fury
The moment of controversy occurred in North London when Liverpool's young right-back, Conor Bradley, went down with what appeared to be a serious knee injury. With Bradley lying stricken on the turf, Arsenal's Brazilian winger Gabriel Martinelli threw the ball in his direction and then pushed him, seemingly in an attempt to force him off the pitch to allow play to continue.
Martinelli was shown a yellow card by the match official for his actions, but the incident provoked immediate and intense anger from Liverpool players. The severity of Bradley's condition became clear post-match, as the 22-year-old left the stadium on crutches and wearing a supportive brace on his left knee, with manager Arne Slot expressing serious concern.
Pundits Demand Action as FA Delivers Verdict
The incident drew fierce criticism from high-profile football figures. Former Manchester United captain Gary Neville labelled Martinelli's behaviour "disgraceful," stating he was "fuming" and surprised Liverpool players did not react more aggressively.
His old team-mate Roy Keane also condemned the act, drawing on a personal experience. "I didn't like it at all," Keane said. "It happened to me once. I was badly injured and a player stood over me... Throwing the ball at him, standing over him and getting a little knee on him. He tries to force him off."
Despite calls for a potential ban, former Premier League referee Dermot Gallagher, speaking on Sky Sports' Ref Watch, supported the on-field decision. "I think not [for Martinelli to be given retrospective action]. He's been given a yellow card for his actions," Gallagher argued, suggesting the player's actions fell short of warranting a red card upon review.
The FA has now officially backed this stance, confirming no further action will be taken against the 24-year-old Arsenal player.
Apology Issued Amid Managerial Defence
In the aftermath, Gabriel Martinelli took to Instagram on Friday morning to issue a direct apology to Conor Bradley. The Brazilian international claimed he did not realise the full extent of the defender's injury in the heat of the moment.
"Conor and I have messaged and I have already apologised to him," Martinelli wrote. "I really didn't understand he was seriously injured... I want to say I'm deeply sorry for reacting. Sending Conor all my best again for a quick recovery."
Prior to this public apology, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta had defended his player's character, describing Martinelli as an "incredible, lovely guy" who likely did not recognise what had happened.
The incident adds another chapter to the intense rivalry between Arsenal and Liverpool, with former Cardiff City striker Jay Bothroyd predicting lasting repercussions. He suggested Bradley would not quickly forget the clash the next time the two teams meet.
