Former Manchester United captain Roy Keane launched a scathing attack on Arsenal forward Gabriel Martinelli, labelling his behaviour 'disgraceful' following a controversial incident in the closing moments of the Gunners' Premier League draw with Liverpool.
The Controversial Moment at the Emirates
The flashpoint occurred deep into stoppage time of the goalless encounter at the Emirates Stadium on January 8, 2026. Liverpool's Conor Bradley went down injured, requiring medical attention on the pitch. Arsenal's Gabriel Martinelli, seemingly believing the defender was time-wasting, attempted to physically usher the stricken player off the field.
The situation escalated as Martinelli was seen throwing the ball at Bradley and appearing to kick out at him while he lay on the turf. The injury to Bradley was later confirmed to be serious, with the player having to be stretchered off, casting Martinelli's actions in an even poorer light.
Roy Keane's Furious Reaction
Analysing the game for Sky Sports, an incensed Roy Keane did not hold back in his criticism of the Brazilian winger. 'I didn't like it, I didn't like it at all,' Keane stated. 'It happened to me before. I was injured and someone tried to get me off the pitch. It's not good.'
Keane expressed surprise that the Liverpool players did not react more aggressively, highlighting the specific actions he found unacceptable. 'Throwing the ball on him, standing over him and pushing him off the pitch... That behaviour is a disgrace,' he said. 'He's a boy that rolls over himself. Hopefully he takes a look and apologises. You don't know the injury he's got and you're pushing him off the pitch? It's not good.'
Daniel Sturridge Joins the Condemnation
Former Liverpool and England striker Daniel Sturridge echoed Keane's sentiments, describing the scene as 'disappointing to see'. While acknowledging the passion to win, Sturridge emphasised the need for respect.
'I've had injuries and it's never nice,' Sturridge added. 'He thinks he's time-wasting but you need to be self-aware. It's just disrespectful, even worse than disrespectful actually.'
The incident has dominated post-match discussion, overshadowing the tactical battle of a 0-0 draw between two title contenders. With Bradley facing a potentially lengthy layoff, Martinelli's conduct is likely to be scrutinised further by the football authorities and could lead to disciplinary action.
