Arteta Fumes Over Controversial Red Card in Arsenal's Narrow Victory

2025-01-26

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta was left “absolutely fuming” after referee Michael Oliver controversially sent off 18-year-old Myles Lewis-Skelly during their 1-0 Premier League victory over Wolves. The incident occurred in the 43rd minute when Lewis-Skelly tripped Matt Doherty on the edge of Wolves’ box, halting a counter-attack. Oliver deemed the challenge “serious foul play” and issued a straight red card, a decision upheld by VAR.

The dismissal sparked widespread criticism, with pundits and fans alike questioning the severity of the decision. Alan Shearer described it as “one of the worst decisions I’ve seen in a long time,” while Ian Wright called it “a joke.” Former Premier League referee Mike Dean initially disagreed with the decision but later conceded that Oliver may have had grounds for the red card after reviewing footage showing studs making contact with Doherty’s leg.

Arteta refused to comment extensively on the decision, stating, “I am absolutely fuming but I leave it with you. Because it is that obvious, I don’t think my words are going to help.” The Arsenal boss hinted that the club may appeal the decision, which could see Lewis-Skelly miss crucial upcoming matches against Manchester City and Leicester City.

Despite being reduced to 10 men, Arsenal secured the win thanks to a 74th-minute goal from Riccardo Calafiori. Wolves also finished the game with 10 players after João Gomes received a second yellow card. The controversy has reignited debates about VAR and refereeing standards, with former PGMOL chief Keith Hackett calling for Oliver to be “benched” for a few weeks, describing the decision as a “major error.”

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