Arsenal winger, Gabriel Martinelli, has apologised to Liverpool defender, Conor Bradley, following a heated incident late in their Premier League meeting at the Emirates Stadium that drew widespread criticism.
The Brazilian forward was condemned for his conduct after Bradley suffered an injury that eventually required him to be stretchered off, with Martinelli attempting to pull the Liverpool player off the pitch to allow play to continue.
Table-topping Arsenal were pressing for a late winner against the reigning champions when the flashpoint occurred.
Bradley had just cleared the ball into the stands when his knee appeared to twist awkwardly, leaving the Northern Ireland international in visible pain on the turf. Martinelli was nearby as the Liverpool defender went down.
In a move that sparked outrage, Martinelli dropped the ball near Bradley before grabbing him and trying to remove him from the field.
The action was seen as a lack of sportsmanship, particularly given the severity of the injury. Liverpool players quickly reacted in defence of their team-mate, leading to a confrontation between the two sides.
The ensuing melee resulted in yellow cards for players from both teams, with Ibrahima Konate notably angered by the incident. Bradley eventually received treatment, was placed on a stretcher and carried off with his shirt covering his face.
He was later seen leaving the stadium wearing a knee brace.
Pundits were scathing in their assessment of Martinelli’s behaviour.
Sky Sports co-commentator Gary Neville described the incident as “disgraceful”, while former Manchester United captain Roy Keane labelled the Arsenal winger an “idiot” for his actions.
Martinelli has since sought to explain himself, insisting the situation unfolded in the “heat of the moment” and that he did not initially grasp the seriousness of Bradley’s injury. The Arsenal player confirmed he has since contacted the Liverpool defender and issued a public apology on social media, writing: “Conor and I have messaged and I’ve already apologised to him. I really didn’t understand he was seriously injured in the heat of the moment. I want to say I’m deeply sorry for reacting. Sending Conor all my best again for a quick recovery.”
