Premier League Panel rules Gabriel did not deserve red card for Martinez incident

Arsenal defender Gabriel has been cleared of violent conduct after his clash with Chelsea goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez, with the Premier League’s Key Match Incidents (KMI) Panel unanimously backing the decision not to show him a red card, The Athletic reports.

The incident occurred in the fifth minute of Arsenal’s 2-1 victory over Chelsea earlier this month, when Gabriel appeared to kick Martinez in the face while both players competed for a loose ball inside the penalty area. Referee Chris Kavanagh and VAR Darren England took no disciplinary action at the time, prompting debate over whether the Arsenal defender should have been dismissed.

However, the five-person KMI Panel ruled that Gabriel’s actions did not amount to violent conduct or serious foul play, noting that several players were competing for the ball. The ruling means the decision to take no action was considered correct.