Stuart Pearce slams ‘pathetic’ Calafiori after Arsenal beat Man City

Former England international Stuart Pearce has criticised Arsenal defender Riccardo Calafiori for allegedly diving during the Gunners’ Community Shield victory over Manchester City, reports Football 365. Arsenal secured a 3-0 win, with Calafiori opening the scoring early before Kai Havertz and Martin Odegaard completed a convincing victory.

However, Calafiori’s challenge inside the City penalty area drew controversy after referee Samuel Barrott booked him for simulation. Pearce, speaking on talkSPORT, described the incident as “pathetic” and argued that Calafiori should have received a second yellow card. Despite the criticism, Calafiori delivered an impressive performance as Arsenal lifted the trophy.