Arsenal winger Gabriel Martinelli has issued a public apology after a controversial incident involving Liverpool defender Conor Bradley during Thursday night’s 0–0 Premier League draw at the Emirates Stadium. The flashpoint sparked debate across the football world, with opinions divided over whether Martinelli’s actions were reckless or understandable given the intensity of the moment.

What Happened Between Martinelli and Bradley

The incident occurred deep into stoppage time when Liverpool full-back Conor Bradley, chasing the ball near the touchline, landed awkwardly and immediately went down clutching his knee. As Bradley lay injured on the pitch, Martinelli picked up the ball, dropped it near the defender and attempted to push him off the playing surface so play could resume.

The action quickly triggered a confrontation between players from both teams. Martinelli and Liverpool centre-back Ibrahima Konaté were shown yellow cards for their involvement as tempers flared on the pitch.

Bradley required extended medical treatment and was eventually stretched off, later leaving the stadium on crutches with a knee brace, raising concerns over the severity of the injury.

Martinelli Issues Apology on Social Media

Following the match, Martinelli addressed the incident directly, apologising publicly and explaining that he did not realise how serious Bradley’s injury was in the heat of the moment.

“I really didn’t understand he was seriously injured in the heat of the moment,” Martinelli wrote on Instagram.

“I want to say I’m deeply sorry for reacting. Sending Conor all my best again for a quick recovery.”

The Arsenal forward also confirmed that he had already spoken privately with Bradley to apologise for the incident.

Strong Reactions from Gary Neville and Roy Keane

Former Manchester United players Gary Neville and Roy Keane were among Martinelli’s harshest critics during post-match analysis. Neville, speaking on co-commentary, described the Arsenal winger’s actions as “absolutely disgraceful” and labelled him an “idiot” for pushing an injured opponent.

Keane echoed those sentiments after full-time, calling the behaviour a “disgrace” and questioning how Liverpool players restrained themselves from reacting more aggressively.

Both pundits stressed that players cannot assume time-wasting when an opponent appears genuinely injured, especially in such a high-stakes moment.

Liverpool Manager Arne Slot Defends Martinelli

Despite the criticism, Liverpool manager Arne Slot offered a more measured view, suggesting that the wider issue of time-wasting in modern football may have influenced Martinelli’s reaction.

“I don’t know Gabriel Martinelli, but he comes across as a nice guy,” Slot said.

“There is so much time-wasting and players pretending to be injured that sometimes you get annoyed when you’re chasing a goal in the final minutes.”

Slot added that he was certain Martinelli would not have acted the same way if he had understood the seriousness of Bradley’s injury.

Arsenal Boss Arteta Backs His Player

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta also defended Martinelli, describing him as an “incredible, lovely guy” and insisting there was no malicious intent behind the incident.

“Obviously there is no intention from Gabi to do anything bad,” Arteta said.

“I don’t know what happened to Conor, but hopefully it’s not bad.”

Arteta’s side remain six points clear at the top of the Premier League table, despite missing the opportunity to extend their lead further with the draw.

Liverpool Teammates Express Concern for Bradley

Liverpool midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai rejected any suggestion that Bradley was exaggerating his injury, explaining that the defender was in significant pain.

“He didn’t want to come back on the pitch for time-wasting,” Szoboszlai said.

“The health of a player is much more important than anything else.”

The full extent of Bradley’s injury has yet to be confirmed, but Liverpool staff fear it could be serious.

‘Idiot’ or ‘Understandable’? Football Remains Divided

The incident has reignited debate around sportsmanship, player safety, and time-wasting in elite football. While some believe Martinelli’s actions crossed a clear line, others argue the context of the match — stoppage time, title pressure, and frequent feigned injuries — makes the reaction more understandable, if still regrettable.

With Martinelli’s apology accepted and both managers urging perspective, attention now turns to Bradley’s recovery and whether the episode will lead to further discussion around officiating and injury protocols in the Premier League.