Arsenal forward Gabriel Martinelli will face no retrospective punishment from the Football Association for his controversial actions towards Liverpool's injured Conor Bradley during Thursday's fiery 0-0 draw at the Emirates Stadium.
Controversy Erupts During Tense Stalemate
The flashpoint occurred in the second half of the Premier League clash 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 immediately shown a yellow card by the match official, but the incident provoked fury from Liverpool players and sparked a major debate after the final whistle. Bradley's condition added to the tension, as he was later seen leaving the stadium on crutches and wearing a supportive brace on his left knee.
Pundits Fume as FA Delivers Final Verdict
The 24-year-old Arsenal player faced a torrent of criticism from high-profile football figures. Former Manchester United defender Gary Neville labelled Martinelli's conduct "disgraceful," while ex-Red Devils captain Roy Keane also condemned the act, recalling a similar personal experience when injured.
Calls grew for the FA to review the incident and potentially issue a ban. However, former Premier League referee Dermot Gallagher stated on Sky Sports' Ref Watch that he believed no further action was warranted, as the referee had dealt with it at the time by issuing a caution. The FA has now officially backed this stance, confirming Martinelli will escape any additional sanction.
Apology Issued Amid Managerial Defence
In the aftermath, Gabriel Martinelli took to social media to issue a public apology to Conor Bradley. The Arsenal player claimed that in the "heat of the moment" he did not realise the severity of Bradley's injury and stated the pair had messaged privately.
Prior to this 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. Liverpool manager Arne Slot, meanwhile, expressed significant concern over Bradley's injury following the match.
The decision brings a formal end to the controversy, though the incident is sure to be remembered when the two title rivals next meet.
