Image source: sports.yahoo.com
Gabriel Martinelli issued a public apology to Conor Bradley after manhandling the injured Liverpool defender during Arsenal’s 0-0 draw at the Emirates Stadium on Thursday, with the Brazilian revealing he has messaged Bradley directly to express his regret for the controversial incident.
Martinelli Issues Public Apology After Controversial Bradley Incident in Arsenal Draw
Martinelli threw the ball at Bradley and physically pushed him while the Liverpool defender lay injured on the turf during the closing stages of Thursday’s goalless encounter. The Arsenal winger received a yellow card for the flashpoint, which provoked angry reactions from Liverpool’s players and nearly sparked a mass confrontation between both sets of players.
Bradley left the Emirates Stadium on crutches wearing a supportive brace on his left knee after the incident. Liverpool manager Arne Slot expressed serious concern about the 22-year-old’s condition, stating he fears the worst for Bradley’s injury. The defender had earlier struck the crossbar during the opening half of the cagey contest but now faces a potentially significant spell on the sidelines pending scan results.
Former Manchester United captain Roy Keane condemned Martinelli’s actions as disgraceful during Sky Sports’ coverage of the match. However, Martinelli responded to the widespread criticism by posting a message on his Instagram account, writing that he and Bradley have messaged each other and that he has already apologised directly to the Liverpool player.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta defended his player during the post-match news conference, describing Martinelli as an incredible and lovely person who probably did not realise the severity of Bradley’s injury. Arteta suggested that Martinelli likely did not recognise what had happened in the heat of the moment, while Liverpool boss Slot acknowledged the difficulty players face in distinguishing between genuine injuries and time-wasting tactics.
The draw extends Arsenal’s advantage over Manchester City to six points, with the reigning champions now sitting 14 points behind the Gunners in the Premier League table. Martinelli’s Instagram apology concluded with him sending his best wishes to Bradley for a quick recovery, stating he was deeply sorry for his reaction and genuinely did not understand the defender was seriously injured during the incident.
