Michael Oliver slammed for 'failing to do the basics' for key Arsenal decision
Ben Fleming released an article on September 23, 2024, at 3:00 PM, with a brief update made at 3:01 PM on the same day.
Premier League official Michael Oliver has come under fire for not executing fundamental responsibilities during a crucial moment in the match between Manchester City and Arsenal on Sunday.
The two competing teams faced off in an exciting 2-2 tie at the Etihad Stadium, in a match filled with tension and numerous contentious moments.
After Erling Haaland scored his 100th goal for City, Arsenal responded with goals from Riccardo Calafiori and Gabriel. However, just before halftime, they faced a setback as one of their players was sent off, leaving them with only ten men.
The Gunners showed great determination in their defense for most of the second half, but they ultimately conceded a late equalizer from John Stones during stoppage time.
Though a lot of the discussion after the match centered around Leandro Trossard’s red card for kicking the ball away, there was less attention on what happened just before Arsenal scored their first goal.
Kyle Walker was especially frustrated about the goal, feeling he hadn't been given enough time to return to his position after being called over for a quick discussion with the referee during the stoppage.
The choice also left Pep Guardiola furious, as he shattered a chair in his irritation. Former referee Keith Hackett thinks his team has good reasons to feel wronged.
"I completely understand why the Manchester City players are so angry about how Arsenal's first goal, netted by Riccardo Calfiori, came about," Hackett expressed in The Telegraph.
Oliver had called Kyle Walker away from his spot as right-back to speak with him and Bukayo Saka from Arsenal in the center circle after giving a free kick to Arsenal. It seems the referee was looking for better conduct from the players.
In fundamental officiating, when you have removed a player from their position to have a word with them, it is important to give them the chance to get back to their spot before you signal for the play to resume.
"Oliver didn't manage to do that, and the mistake became even worse when the kick was taken from an incorrect spot."
After the match, Guardiola expressed his disappointment and stated that he would make sure his players change their behavior in the future to prevent such situations from happening again.
"I worry when the referee tells Kyle to move 20 miles from where he's standing," the Spaniard mentioned.
In the future, I plan to tell my players that when the referee wants to have a chat, they should respond with, “No, no, come over to me,” and we won’t move from our spot.
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In addition, Manchester City player Manuel Akanji criticizes Arsenal’s strategy and sends a strong message about the title race.
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