Arsenal fans expressed their frustration at referee Michael Oliver’s decision not to send off Manchester City’s Mateo Kovacic during a recent Premier League clash. Kovacic received a booking in the 29th minute for a reckless tackle on Gunners’ captain Martin Odegaard, causing concern as Odegaard felt the full force of the challenge on his right Achilles.
Despite calls from fans for a red card, the video assistant referee did not intervene, allowing Kovacic to remain on the pitch. The frustration escalated when Kovacic committed another poorly-timed challenge, this time on Declan Rice, just five minutes later. Oliver chose not to issue a second yellow card, prompting angry Arsenal supporters to voice their discontent on social media.
The Emirates faithful’s ire was shared by prominent Arsenal fan and Sun columnist Piers Morgan, who criticized the refereeing as “abysmal.” Even former players and pundits joined the discussion, with Micah Richards suggesting Kovacic should have seen red, and Theo Walcott deeming the challenge “nasty” and deserving of a red card.
Despite the controversy, Arsenal emerged victorious with a late goal from Gabriel Martinelli, marking their first Premier League win against City in eight years.
Mateo Kovačić escapes with just a yellow for this challenge on Martin Ødegaard 😬 pic.twitter.com/dHPyZZzr7H
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) October 8, 2023
Arsenal performance and stats
Arsenal is currently 2nd in the Premier League with 20 points.
In the last 8 games, it has won 6 times and drawn twice. In its last match, Arsenal won 1-0 against Manchester City.
It has a positive goal difference after scoring 16 goals and conceding 6.
Arsenal will play the next match in Premier League against Chelsea on Saturday 21st of October in London.
