Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has delivered a classy message of thanks to his Liverpool counterpart Arne Slot, following a turbulent week dominated by the fallout from Conor Bradley's serious injury.
Controversy and Compassion After Anfield Clash
The incident occurred during the closing stages of Arsenal's Premier League clash with Liverpool at Anfield on Thursday, January 8, 2026. Liverpool confirmed on Sunday that Northern Ireland international Bradley would miss the rest of the season with a serious knee injury, sustained after an awkward slip.
The situation escalated when Arsenal winger Gabriel Martinelli, in a moment of misjudgement, attempted to push the stricken Bradley off the pitch after the ball had gone out of play. This provoked a furious reaction from Liverpool players and later, strong criticism from pundits like Sky Sports' Gary Neville.
Slot's Eloquent Defence and Martinelli's Perfect Response
In the aftermath, Liverpool boss Arne Slot spoke eloquently to defuse tension, deliberately absolving Martinelli of any blame for Bradley's unfortunate plight. Arteta was quick to acknowledge this act of sportsmanship.
'I must say I think the way Arne Slot spoke after the game was brilliant,' Arteta told TNT Sport. 'Because he knows how the players feel about themselves, about the opposition and about their colleagues. I think it exemplifies someone who knows the game really well.'
Arteta emphasised that there was 'no intention whatsoever to damage a player' from Martinelli. The Brazilian winger then let his football do the talking.
Returning to the starting line-up for Sunday's FA Cup third-round tie away at Portsmouth, the 24-year-old was booed relentlessly by home fans but produced a stunning riposte. He scored his first senior hat-trick, inspiring Arsenal to a 4-1 comeback victory after Colby Bishop's shock early opener for Pompey.
Set-Piece Prowess Seals Cup Progress
The Premier League leaders showcased their dead-ball expertise to overturn the deficit. Three of Arsenal's four goals came directly from corners, with another resulting from a quickly taken free-kick. Gabriel Jesus provided an assist for one of Martinelli's strikes with a pinpoint cross.
Stand-in centre-half Christian Norgaard admitted the start wasn't good enough but praised the team's momentum shift. 'In the second half we could have made more than four goals,' he said, also crediting Portsmouth for their fight in difficult conditions.
On the team's set-piece strength, Norgaard added: 'It's a really important part of our game and it's an important weapon of ours. We will keep developing and using it when we need it.'
The result sees Arsenal comfortably through to the FA Cup fourth round, with the focus now shifting back to the title race, albeit with a notable moment of managerial respect highlighted amidst the week's drama.
