FA should have got involved after Liverpool incident - I wouldn't shake Gabriel Martinelli's hand
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FA Should Have Got Involved After Liverpool Incident - I Wouldn't Shake Gabriel Martinelli's Hand
The article passionately argues that the Football Association (FA) should intervene following Arsenal winger Gabriel Martinelli's controversial actions toward injured Liverpool defender Conor Bradley during a tense 0-0 Premier League draw at Anfield.
In the closing stages of the match, Bradley suffered a serious ankle injury after a challenge from Martinelli. As medical staff attended to the stricken right-back on the touchline, Martinelli was caught on camera throwing the ball at Bradley, kneeing him, and attempting to push him off the pitch to speed up play and secure a draw for Arsenal. The author describes this as an "absolute scandal," emphasizing Martinelli's lack of sportsmanship despite Bradley's evident pain and disorientation.
Despite the incident sparking outrage among Liverpool fans and pundits, Martinelli faced no retrospective punishment. The piece criticizes the FA for failing to act, contrasting it with stricter enforcement in similar past cases. It highlights how Bradley heroically tried to hop back onto the pitch, only for Martinelli to aggressively intervene. Post-match, handshakes occurred, and Martinelli issued a public apology on social media, but the author remains unconvinced, stating they "wouldn't shake his hand."
Reactions vary: Arsenal legend Ray Parlour called it a misread situation with no harm done, urging calm, while Liverpool boss Arne Slot defended Martinelli, noting he wouldn't have pushed if aware of the injury's severity. Arteta praised Martinelli's mentality amid the backlash.
The opinion piece calls for the FA to set a precedent, warning that such behavior undermines the game's integrity. It laments the lack of accountability, insisting officials must review footage and impose sanctions to deter future incidents, ensuring fair play prevails over gamesmanship.
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