Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta supports Myles Lewis-Skelly’s red card reversal but condemns abuse directed at referee Michael Oliver. Learn about Arsenal’s upcoming Champions League match against Girona.
Arteta Condemns Referee Abuse and Praises Red Card Reversal
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta expressed relief after the red card given to young player Myles Lewis-Skelly was overturned. However, he criticized the abuse aimed at referee Michael Oliver by fans.
Lewis-Skelly, just 18 years old, avoided a three-match ban after the Football Association (FA) canceled his red card from Arsenal’s 1-0 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers.
The red card came after he tripped Wolves’ Matt Doherty during a counterattack before halftime.
Even though the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) supported the decision, fans and pundits widely criticized it.
The referee organization, PGMOL, revealed that police are now investigating threats and abuse directed at Oliver following the match.
Arteta spoke out against such behavior, saying, “Obviously, we are really happy that the decision has been made and Myles is going to be available for us.” He continued, “Every time I talk about abuse towards a player or a coach, it doesn’t matter. We have to try hard to eradicate it from the game. It certainly damages our sport.”
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Looking Forward to Champions League Challenge
Arsenal will face Girona in their final Champions League group match on Wednesday. Arteta praised Girona despite their early exit in their first European season.
“I think this is a beautiful story, especially in the way that they’ve done it,” Arteta said about Girona, who finished third in La Liga last season. “It shows you can do big things with a vision. I watched all their games in their group stage as I love the team, I love the coach.”
Arsenal is currently third in the Champions League standings with 16 points. They need just a draw to secure their place in the Round of 16 and avoid a difficult playoff round.
Arteta emphasized the importance of the upcoming match, stating, “We have been very close to big titles in the last few years but that’s very difficult in football. Tomorrow we must earn our qualification.”
Arsenal will aim to continue their strong form and advance confidently in the Champions League, while Arteta hopes for a respectful and supportive environment for all involved in the sport.
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