Premier League explains why Palace player was not sent off against Arsenal

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·22 de dezembro de 2024

Premier League explains why Palace player was not sent off against Arsenal

Nathaniel Clyne’s strong tackle on Riccardo Calafiori during Arsenal’s match against Crystal Palace last night has sparked outrage among Arsenal fans, who believe the challenge deserved a red card. The incident occurred shortly after Calafiori, who had just returned from injury, came on as a substitute in the second half. The tackle raised concerns that the Italian defender could face another spell on the sidelines, leaving Arsenal players and manager Mikel Arteta visibly furious.

Clyne was shown a yellow card for the challenge, a decision that baffled many, especially as replays suggested it could have been deemed dangerous. Despite the uproar from Arsenal supporters, the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) reviewed the decision and upheld the on-field call, allowing Clyne to remain on the pitch. Arsenal, undeterred, went on to secure an emphatic victory, but the controversy surrounding the tackle lingered.

Vídeos OneFootball

The Premier League released a statement via their X account which read

#CRYARS – 79’ The referee issued a yellow card to Clyne for a challenge on Calafiori. VAR checked for a potential red card and confirmed the referee’s call, deeming that the challenge was reckless and not serious foul play.
– sábado, 21 de dezembro de 2024

This explanation has done little to appease Arsenal fans, who argue that the tackle endangered Calafiori’s safety. The fact that Calafiori had just returned from injury only heightened the sense of injustice, with many feeling the punishment was too lenient for what they viewed as a reckless and dangerous act.

The incident has reignited discussions about the consistency of refereeing decisions in the Premier League, particularly regarding dangerous tackles. Arsenal fans believe VAR’s role is to ensure fairness and player safety, and they are frustrated that the technology failed to intervene decisively in this case.

Football, as a contact sport, will always involve tackles, and opinions on what constitutes “serious foul play” will remain subjective. However, the challenge on Calafiori has underscored the need for clearer guidelines and consistent application of the rules to prevent similar controversies in the future.

Despite the controversy, Arsenal will be relieved that Calafiori avoided injury and will hope that the incident serves as a wake-up call for tighter officiating moving forward. The defender has become an important part of the team, and his fitness will be crucial as Arsenal looks to maintain their current run of form.

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