Keith Hackett hits out at Dermot Gallagher's verdict on Man City vs Arsenal controversy
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Credit: Sky Sports News / Sky Sports Main Event Tue 21 April 2026 18:30, UK Manchester City have every right to be disappointed over Gabriel Magalhaes’ headbutt, and Dermot Gallagher has only rubbed salt into their wounds.That is according to former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA referee, Keith Hackett, who exclusively told Football Insider that the ex-official has “got this one wrong” after agreeing with the original decision live on-air.In the 83rd minute, following a game of back-and-forth between the two, Gabriel clearly leaned in for a headbutt attempt on Erling Haaland, only for Anthony Taylor to caution both on Sunday, 19 April.Social media blew up during Man City’s 2-1 win over Arsenal, with the majority agreeing that the Gunners’ No.6 should have been given his marching orders, but not Gallagher."I think it's a fair outcome" 🤝Dermot Gallagher believes the referee made the right call in not sending off Gabriel during Man City's win over Arsenal 🗣️ pic.twitter.com/kBBPn9CbVs— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) April 20, 2026 View Tweet ⚽ Man City Matchday ⚽ Team news, line-ups, tactical previews and expert breakdowns for every Manchester City fixture. VISIT THE MATCH HUB MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES ‘I’m sorry, Dermot, but you got this one wrong’Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former referee said: “The law is clear.
When a player commits a physical, aggressive offence against an opponent, then it’s a red card. “Gabriel initially had his forehead on Haaland’s.
I’m sorry, Dermot, but you got this one wrong. He [Taylor] was let down by VAR,” he told Football Insider.No red card for Gabriel could have further repercussions on the Premier League title race as well, with the Brazilian now available for Arsenal’s next three matches against Newcastle United, Fulham and West Ham.Pep Guardiola’s side have moved within touching distance of the league leaders, and with a game in hand, they could soon close the gap completely, with just goal difference separating the two.