EPL: Gabriel lucky to escape red card against Chelsea – Rooney 

Manchester United greats Wayne Rooney and Ashley Young have expressed their concerns regarding the referee’s decision not to issue a red card to Arsenal’s Gabriel during a Premier League match against Chelsea on Sunday.

Arsenal maintained their unbeaten start to the season with a comeback victory over Chelsea, managed by Xabi Alonso. Chelsea, who entered the match with a flawless record, took an early lead just two minutes into the game through Morgan Rogers.

Arsenal equalized midway through the first half with a goal from Kai Havertz, who scored against his former club. The decisive goal came from Arsenal captain Martin Ødegaard in the second half, securing a 2-1 win.

In post-match analysis, Rooney criticized the officiating, arguing that Arsenal should have been reduced to 10 men shortly after kickoff when Gabriel struck Chelsea goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez in the head. The incident left Martinez on the ground requiring medical attention, and several Chelsea players reacted with visible frustration.

Referee Chris Kavanagh’s view of the altercation was hindered by a crowded penalty area, and the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) did not recommend a review of the incident on the pitchside monitor.

During a segment on BBC’s “Match of the Day,” Rooney stated, “At first glance, you don’t really notice it, but upon seeing a replay in slow motion…Martinez has got the ball in his hands and Gabriel boots him in the head, he swings a leg and goes way over the top. He’s extremely lucky to stay on the pitch.”

Young echoed Rooney’s sentiments, commenting, “I agree. When the ball is on the ground and Martinez has it, Gabriel kicks far too high. I’m not sure why it hasn’t gone to VAR or if they’ve properly studied it because he’s nowhere near the ball. He’s got away with one there.”

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