What Gabriel Martinelli said after disrespectful act during Arsenal vs. Liverpool game
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Gabriel Martinelli has publicly apologised after his controversial conduct towards Liverpool defender Conor Bradley in Arsenal’s 0-0 draw with Liverpool at the Emirates. Late in stoppage time, Bradley went down injured near the touchline and Martinelli, trying to force a restart, threw the ball at him and attempted to shove him off the pitch while he was lying on the turf, an action widely described as disrespectful and unsporting.[1][2]
The incident sparked an angry reaction from Liverpool players and strong criticism from pundits, with former Manchester United captain Roy Keane calling Martinelli “a disgrace” on television. Referee Anthony Taylor booked the Arsenal winger at the time, and the Football Association has since confirmed there will be no further punishment, judging the matter to have been dealt with during the match.[1][2]
Bradley, who had earlier hit the crossbar in a tight game, was stretchered off, later leaving the stadium on crutches with a brace on his left knee, raising fears of a serious injury and a lengthy spell on the sidelines.[1][2]
After the backlash, Martinelli used his Instagram story to issue a direct apology. He revealed that he had already exchanged messages with Bradley, writing that he had apologised personally and insisting he did not realise the Liverpool defender was seriously injured “in the heat of the moment.” He said he was “deeply sorry” for his reaction and sent Bradley his best wishes for a quick recovery.[1][2]
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta defended Martinelli’s character, describing him as an “incredible, lovely guy” who would never have acted that way had he understood the severity of the injury. Liverpool boss Arne Slot similarly suggested that players cannot always think clearly so late in a high-intensity match, adding he was sure Martinelli would not have behaved like that if he had known how bad Bradley’s injury might be.[2]