
Arsenal secured a vital 1-0 win over Wolves to maintain their Premier League title hopes, but the match was overshadowed by a controversial red card for 18-year-old Myles Lewis-Skelly. Referee Michael Oliver’s decision to send off the Arsenal youngster for “serious foul play” has left fans, pundits, and even Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta fuming.
The Incident
In the 43rd minute, Lewis-Skelly fouled Wolves’ Matt Doherty near the edge of the Wolves’ box—roughly 70 yards away from Arsenal’s goal. The challenge saw him catch Doherty above the ankle, and Oliver swiftly brandished a straight red card.
VAR reviewed the incident and upheld the decision, citing “high, full, and forceful contact above the ankle” as per the Premier League’s guidelines for serious foul play.
Despite Arsenal going on to win the match thanks to Riccardo Calafiori’s late goal, the decision dominated post-match discussions.
Arteta’s Reaction
Arteta didn’t hold back when asked about the decision:
“I am absolutely fuming, but I’ll leave it with you because it’s so obvious. Maybe we don’t even need to appeal because the decision speaks for itself.”
If Arsenal chooses not to appeal, Lewis-Skelly could miss critical matches against Manchester City, Leicester City, and Newcastle United.
What the Pundits Said
The decision has sparked mixed reactions among pundits:
- Alan Shearer (BBC Match of the Day):“One of the worst decisions I’ve seen in a long time. It wasn’t fast, forceful, or endangering an opponent. VAR should have overturned it.”
- Mike Dean (Sky Sports):“When you see the still image, it looks like serious foul play. But a deeper look shows it was more of a cynical trip than a dangerous tackle.”
- Pat Nevin:“A stunning decision. It was a tactical foul, not violent conduct. I’ve never seen a red card like this before.”
- Nedum Onuoha:“I can understand why the referee gave it, but it’s a tough lesson for a young player.”
Fans’ Reactions
The decision also polarized fans on social media:
- Paul: “Good decision. Players shouldn’t get away with hacking others down with no attempt to play the ball.”
- Simon: “The narrative that ‘above the ankle = red card’ is nonsense. There are countless fouls like this that aren’t even yellow cards.”
- Tim: “Referees need accountability. That’s never a red card. If it stands, it sets a terrible precedent.”
Arsenal’s Growing Frustration with Refereeing Decisions
This incident is the latest in a string of controversial calls that have gone against Arsenal this season:
- Leandro Trossard (vs Manchester City): Sent off for time-wasting, which Arteta labeled “obvious” and unfair.
- Declan Rice (vs Brighton): Red-carded in a contentious call.
- Gabriel Martinelli (2022): Received two yellow cards in quick succession, a rare and much-debated decision.
With four red cards this season—more than any other team—Arsenal fans feel their club is being unfairly treated by officials.
What’s Next for Lewis-Skelly and Arsenal?
If the decision stands, Lewis-Skelly will miss three crucial games, including a Carabao Cup semi-final against Newcastle. Arsenal will hope an appeal can overturn the suspension, but the Premier League’s guidelines on “dangerous play” suggest that may be an uphill battle.
For now, Arteta and his team will have to rally without one of their brightest young talents as they continue their title charge.
What’s your take on Lewis-Skelly’s red card? Share your thoughts below!