While Real Madrid and Barcelona dominate headlines in Spain, a major controversy is brewing in the Premier League. Following a 0-0 draw at the Emirates Stadium, Liverpool is reportedly considering unprecedented legal action against Arsenal after an incident that ended Conor Bradley’s season.
The Incident: “Lack of Duty of Care” Sparks Liverpool Outrage
In the dying moments of the match, Liverpool’s Northern Ireland international Conor Bradley suffered a serious knee injury while attempting to clear the ball.
As he lay on the pitch in visible pain, Arsenal substitute Gabriel Martinelli, apparently assuming Bradley was wasting time, dropped the ball on the defender and physically pushed him off the field. The incident immediately drew outrage from Liverpool players and fans alike.
On-Field Reaction: Martinelli received only a yellow card, leaving Liverpool players furious over the Brazilian’s lack of sportsmanship.
Media Criticism: Gary Neville called Martinelli an “idiot,” expressing surprise that Liverpool players did not physically respond.
Legal Implications and Potential Fallout
Former PGMOL chief Keith Hackett suggested the case could move from the pitch to the courtroom. He emphasized that players have a duty of care toward opponents, and Martinelli’s interference with an injured player could expose him—or Arsenal—to liability. Hackett added that clubs have previously pursued legal action when injuries have derailed a player’s career.
Fan Reaction Fuels the Controversy
Despite Martinelli issuing a public apology and exchanging messages with Bradley, Arsenal supporters further inflamed tensions. During Arsenal’s 4-1 FA Cup win over Portsmouth
Fans mocked Gary Neville with chants throughout the game
When Portsmouth’sMakenzie Kirk was injured, visiting Arsenal fans chanted, “Gabi, push him off,” referencing the Bradley incident.
The 0-0 draw keeps Arsenal atop the Premier League, but losing Bradley is a major blow to Liverpool’s title ambitions. With legal threats looming, this rivalry has reached unprecedented levels of tension.
Question for Readers: Should a club be allowed to sue an opposing player over an injury, or should such matters remain under the jurisdiction of the FA?
