Gary Neville Faces Backlash Over Response to Martinelli–Bradley Incident
Some Sky Sports viewers have called for Gary Neville to be suspended following controversial remarks he made about Gabriel Martinelli during Arsenal’s goalless draw with Liverpool on Thursday night. Arsenal, who sit top of the Premier League, endured a frustrating evening at the Emirates as they failed to take advantage of dropped points elsewhere, particularly against an injury-hit Liverpool side that controlled much of the second half under Arne Slot.
Tensions flared late in the match when Conor Bradley suffered what appeared to be a knee injury off the ball and was stretchered off. As the Liverpool defender went down near the touchline, Martinelli sprinted towards him, hurled the ball in his direction, and attempted to force him off the pitch so play could restart quickly. Despite already being on a yellow card, the Arsenal winger escaped further punishment and completed the match.
Martinelli later issued a public apology for his behaviour, but many viewers have since called for retrospective disciplinary action. Attention has also shifted to Neville, whose live commentary during the incident drew widespread criticism for crossing the line as tempers flared between players.
Gary Neville Faces Backlash Over Martinelli Commentary
Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson was among the first to intervene as players from both teams clashed, with the Brazilian helping calm the situation and prevent it from escalating further.
Neville, however, took a much stronger stance, openly criticising Martinelli and suggesting that Liverpool’s players should have reacted more forcefully to protect their teammate.
His comments sparked outrage online, particularly among Arsenal supporters. Several fans accused Neville of encouraging violence on live television, with one viewer tagging Sky Sports on X while demanding disciplinary action. Others went further, calling for Neville to be replaced entirely, while some labelled both the pundit and broadcaster unprofessional.
Although Neville did receive backing from a section of fans who were equally shocked by Martinelli’s actions, the overall reaction was largely negative. Some Arsenal supporters reportedly escalated their complaints to Ofcom, arguing that Neville’s remarks breached professional standards.
Critics stressed that regardless of personal opinion, inciting physical retaliation during a broadcast was unacceptable.
What the Draw Means for Arsenal’s Title Hopes
From a footballing perspective, Arsenal missed a golden opportunity to significantly strengthen their grip on the Premier League title. A win over Liverpool — a side struggling with form and forced to play without a recognised striker — would have sent a strong message to the rest of the league and pushed the Gunners closer to a first league title in over 20 years.
Still, the draw is not catastrophic. Mikel Arteta’s side remain six points clear at the summit, but concerns linger over their collapse in composure during the second half. Arsenal managed just 25% possession after the break and failed to register a shot until stoppage time, despite playing at home.
They were also helped by results elsewhere, with both Manchester City and Aston Villa dropping points — City drawing their third consecutive match. Had those results gone differently, the title race could appear far more tense than the current table suggests.