Declan Rice’s equalizer brought joy to almost everyone connected with Arsenal — but not quite everyone.
Trailing 1-0 at Old Trafford after Bruno Fernandes’ stunning free-kick, Rice smashed home a second-half equalizer to bring the Gunners level.
While Rice celebrated in front of the Stretford End, silencing the Manchester United fans and performing Cristiano Ronaldo’s famous ‘calma’ gesture, not all his teammates were in the mood to enjoy the moment.
Speaking after the game, Rice explained his celebration, saying: “It’s just a bit of football banter between me and the fans.”
However, one teammate clearly wasn’t impressed.
As Rice embraced Myles Lewis-Skelly and Mikel Merino, Gabriel Martinelli could be seen in the distance, furious and shouting at Rice to stop celebrating and hurry back to the center circle to restart play.
Focused on winning rather than celebrating a draw, Martinelli was desperate for Arsenal to resume the match quickly in pursuit of a vital three points to keep their title hopes alive.
Commentating on the moment, Gary Neville noted: “I think Martinelli is right. Get back to the halfway line. He’s shouting at Rice, ‘why are you celebrating?'”
Despite Martinelli’s urgency, Arsenal couldn’t find a winner and had to settle for a point — a result that further dents their Premier League title chances.
Although they still hold a game in hand, Arsenal now sit 15 points behind leaders Liverpool, who appear strong favorites to clinch the title.
The draw at Old Trafford adds to fears that Arsenal may once again fall short of becoming champions.
Manager Mikel Arteta’s frustration was also evident after the game, as he tried to cut short his interview with Sky Sports’ Patrick Davison. When asked if the lack of striker options had cost them, Arteta was reluctant to answer and attempted to walk away.
Davison pressed: “Mikel, one more. I have to ask you about the title race because it’s 15 points now — is that too much?”
Arteta simply responded, “Alright, thank you,” before leaving.
Arsenal now turn their attention to the Champions League, where they will look to complete their round of 16 tie against PSV on Wednesday, holding a commanding 7-1 aggregate lead. They return to Premier League action next Sunday with a crucial clash against Chelsea in the race for a top-four finish.
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