Ex-Refs Chief Sends Chris Kavanagh Stark Warning Over Bournemouth vs Arsenal Scenes: 'He'll End Up Not Getting Another Game'

Former Premier League referees' chief Keith Hackett has issued a severe warning to referee Chris Kavanagh following his controversial decisions in Arsenal's match against Bournemouth. Hackett, a respected figure in officiating circles, fears Kavanagh's handling of key moments could jeopardize his career, declaring, "He'll end up not getting another game."[1]

The controversy erupted during the tense Bournemouth vs Arsenal clash in the 2024/25 season. Tensions boiled over when Declan Rice, Arsenal's midfielder, was spotted raging at Kavanagh after a disputed call. Rice, no stranger to clashes with the referee, confronted him furiously, echoing a prior incident between the pair earlier in the season.[1] Fans and pundits highlighted Kavanagh's failure to award a penalty or red card in a pivotal sequence involving Arsenal players, sparking widespread outrage.

Hackett criticized Kavanagh's poor game management, pointing to his reluctance to consult VAR effectively and mishandling player dissent. "Referees must maintain authority, but Kavanagh allowed scenes to escalate," Hackett said. He warned that repeated lapses could lead to the PGMOL sidelining him, emphasizing the need for accountability in high-stakes fixtures.

Arsenal supporters vented frustration online, with many calling for Kavanagh's removal from top matches. The incident reignited debates on refereeing standards, especially after Rice's earlier booking for protesting a decision. PGMOL sources indicated an internal review, but no immediate action was confirmed.

Hackett urged Kavanagh to learn from the backlash, stressing that officiating demands composure under pressure. "Ignore the noise at your peril," he added. The episode underscores ongoing Premier League concerns over consistency, with calls for better training and transparency in VAR usage.

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