Arsenal forward Gabriel Martinelli looks set to avoid further punishment after being accused of showing “total disrespect” by shoving referee Sam Barrott during the club’s FA Cup defeat to Southampton.
The incident, which occurred in stoppage time of the quarter-final clash, sparked criticism from pundits and former officials but is not expected to result in retrospective action from the Football Association.
The controversy unfolded during Arsenal’s shock 2-1 loss at St Mary’s on April 4, a result that knocked Mikel Arteta’s side out of the FA Cup. In the closing moments of the match, Martinelli attempted to take a quick free-kick as Arsenal chased a late equaliser, but pushed referee Barrott aside in frustration. The official immediately showed the Brazilian winger a yellow card for the incident.
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Despite the heated reaction that followed, reports suggest Martinelli will not face additional punishment. According to multiple outlets, because the referee dealt with the matter during the match by issuing a booking, the Football Association is unlikely to take retrospective disciplinary action under existing rules.
However, the Arsenal forward has still come under heavy criticism. Former Premier League referee Mark Halsey described Martinelli’s behaviour as “total disrespect” and argued that the winger should have been sent off rather than booked.
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Halsey stressed that players should never make physical contact with match officials and warned that such actions send the wrong message to referees at grassroots level.
The incident capped a frustrating evening for Arsenal, who were eliminated after Southampton scored a late winner to secure their place in the semi-finals. Martinelli’s actions came in the 94th minute as the Gunners desperately attempted to restart play quickly following a foul.
While debate continues over whether stronger punishment was warranted, the FA’s stance means Martinelli will remain available for Arsenal’s upcoming fixtures. The Brazilian attacker is therefore expected to avoid suspension, allowing Arteta to focus on the club’s remaining competitions, including their Champions League quarter-final commitments.
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