“I have been in this league for eighteen years, but I have never seen anything like it. According to the rules, it is probably possible, but the referee must want to give two cards in this way,” Arteta told a press conference.
Arsenal sent Gabriel into the lead in the 25th minute, but Martinelli complicated the situation in the 69th minute. The 20-year-old Brazilian first attacked Podence’s car throw-in and then stopped the escaping Chiquinho with the advantage given. Judge Oliver showed him two yellow cards in a row and then a red card, the fourth for Arsenal in the last six duels.
“I haven’t been happy with some of the judges’ decisions lately. But we know that if we keep playing at ten, it’s hard to earn enough points. We’re talking about it in the cabin, but I don’t know how to explain it to the players better,” said Arteta.
Martinelli himself did not understand the referee Oliver‘s unusual solution. “I’m upset, it’s hard to come to terms with such a red card. But I’m proud of my teammates for winning,” he wrote on Twitter.
Arsenal finished in fifth place and will challenge Brentford on his field in the next match. But Martinelli won’t be there for the punishment.
