Arsenal forward Gabriel Martinelli has issued a public apology following a heated incident involving Liverpool defender Conor Bradley during Thursday night’s goalless Premier League draw at the Emirates Stadium.
The flashpoint occurred deep into stoppage time when Bradley, chasing the ball near the touchline, landed awkwardly and went down holding his knee. As play paused, Martinelli picked up the ball, dropped it near the Liverpool full-back and appeared to push him in an effort to restart the game quickly.
The incident immediately triggered a confrontation between players from both sides. Martinelli and Liverpool centre-back Ibrahima Konate were later shown yellow cards for their involvement as tensions flared on the pitch.
Bradley required medical attention and was eventually taken off on a stretcher. He was later seen leaving the stadium using crutches and wearing a knee brace, raising concerns about the seriousness of the injury.
The moment drew strong reactions from pundits, with former Manchester United players Gary Neville and Roy Keane openly criticising Martinelli’s actions. Neville labelled the behaviour unacceptable, while Keane questioned the Arsenal winger’s judgement in the situation.
In response, Martinelli took to social media to express regret, explaining that he did not realise the extent of Bradley’s injury at the time.
“In the heat of the moment, I didn’t understand he was seriously injured,” Martinelli wrote. “I reacted badly and I want to sincerely apologise. I’ve already spoken to Conor and I wish him a speedy recovery.”
Liverpool head coach Arne Slot later offered a more measured view, suggesting that ongoing frustrations around time-wasting in football may have contributed to the incident, while stressing that player safety remains paramount.
The draw kept Arsenal at the top of the Premier League table, but the late controversy ensured the match was remembered as much for the confrontation as for the football itself.
