Matchweek 21 of the Premier League saw Arsenal play out a 0-0 home draw with Liverpool.
Both Arne Slot and Mikel Arteta have tried to defuse the situation over Martinelli’s foolish act, yet the damage has already been done.
After once again proving his ability to deliver standout performances against top-tier opponents, whether the unlucky right-back Conor Bradley will be sidelined for a long spell once again has become an unresolved concern for Liverpool.
Martinelli first threw the ball at the grounded Bradley, then pushed him off the pitch. This act could have exacerbated the defender’s knee injury, and there is no excuse or justification for it whatsoever.
Of course, the Arsenal substitute was frustrated at the time—Liverpool had easily neutralized the home side’s lackluster attacking intentions, and most fans at the Emirates Stadium shared the same sense of disappointment.
But there is a line in every situation, and Martinelli crossed it. He was lucky not to be sent off with a red card. The furious reaction from Liverpool’s players was completely understandable; indeed, it is commendable that they did not resort to more aggressive means to vent their anger.
Bradley is likely to miss multiple matches, making Jeremie Frimpong the most probable replacement. Frimpong turned in another solid display on the right flank in this game, though he lacked the decisive passes that have been a key part of his contributions in recent weeks.
If Bradley deserved better treatment, then Martinelli deserves far stronger condemnation—and the Football Association must take action now.
