Arsenal winger Gabriel Martinelli has issued a public apology after a late-game incident involving Liverpool’s injured defender Conor Bradley during Thursday’s Premier League match.
“Deeply Sorry”: Martinelli Issues Public Apology Following Bradley Incident
The controversy occurred in stoppage time of the 0-0 draw at Emirates Stadium. Bradley lay on the turf holding his knee after landing awkwardly.
Martinelli, frustrated as Arsenal chased a winning goal, approached the defender, dropped the ball on him, and attempted to push him off the pitch to restart play.
Liverpool players reacted furiously, sparking a confrontation that resulted in a yellow card for Martinelli.
In an Instagram post on Friday, Martinelli stated he had privately messaged Bradley.
“I really didn’t understand he was seriously injured in the heat of the moment,” he wrote. “I want to say I’m deeply sorry for reacting.”
Pundits heavily criticized Martinelli’s actions. Speaking on Sky Sports, former Manchester United captain Roy Keane labeled the behavior “an absolute disgrace”.
Fellow commentator Gary Neville called it “disgraceful,” expressing surprise that Liverpool players did not react more strongly.
Both managers defended Martinelli’s character while acknowledging the poor optics. Arsenal’s Mikel Arteta called his player “an incredible, lovely guy” who likely did not realize the severity of the injury.
Liverpool boss Arne Slot agreed, stating, “I’m 100 percent sure that if he knew what the injury might be, he would never do that.”.
Slot confirmed his fear of “the worst” for Bradley, who left the stadium on crutches with a knee brace. The 22-year-old defender will undergo scans to determine the extent of the damage.
The draw had significant title implications, extending Arsenal’s lead over Manchester City to six points despite a lackluster home performance.
