FA Likely Verdict on Gabriel Martinelli Emerges After Conor Bradley Clash

 

 

Former PGMOL chief Keith Hackett has outlined what he believes the FA is most likely to decide regarding any further punishment for Gabriel Martinelli following his clash with Conor Bradley in Arsenal’s goalless draw with Liverpool on Thursday night.

Tensions were high at the Emirates Stadium as the Premier League leaders struggled to break Liverpool down, with frustration boiling over in stoppage time. Concern quickly grew for Bradley after the Liverpool defender appeared to suffer a knee injury near the touchline. Given his history with long-term injuries, fears mounted as he went down in clear discomfort.

Despite the seriousness of the situation, Martinelli was seen throwing the ball at Bradley and forcefully trying to usher him off the pitch so play could resume. The incident appeared even more troubling when Bradley was later stretchered off, sparking widespread backlash towards the Arsenal winger.

Although Martinelli later issued a public apology, questions remain over whether the FA should take retrospective action after he was shown only a yellow card on the night.

Speaking to Football Insider, Hackett — a former FIFA referee — did not hold back in his assessment.

“It was clear the Liverpool player was seriously injured. Martinelli’s behaviour was, frankly, disgraceful and, in my view, warranted a red card,” he said.

However, despite believing the punishment should have been more severe, Hackett does not expect the FA to intervene. He explained that referee Anthony Taylor had a clear view of the incident and acted quickly by issuing a yellow card, which helped calm the situation.

“His actions endangered the safety of an opponent. When a player is seriously injured, it’s vital that medics are allowed to assess the situation immediately,” Hackett added. “While I would like to see the authorities review the incident and consider upgrading the sanction, I don’t expect further action — though I would welcome it.”

Historically, the FA only steps in retrospectively for incidents that officials fail to see or for serious off-field offences. A recent example occurred in February 2025, when Milutin Osmajic received a nine-match ban for racially abusing Hannibal Mejbri.

Compared to that case, Martinelli’s actions are unlikely to prompt further scrutiny — particularly as the referee saw the incident, dealt with it promptly, and prevented it from escalating.

Another factor working in Martinelli’s favour is his swift public apology. The Brazil international acknowledged his mistake on social media, explaining that he did not realise the extent of Bradley’s injury in the heat of the moment.

“Conor and I have messaged and I have already apologised to him,” Martinelli wrote. “I didn’t understand he was seriously injured. I’m deeply sorry for my reaction and wish him a speedy recovery.”

The draw leaves Arsenal six points clear at the top of the Premier League after 21 matches, while defending champions Liverpool sit fourth, 14 points adrift of the leaders.