Arsenal Red Card: Premier League explains why Michael Oliver’s decision was correct

Micheal Oliver after issuing a red card to Lewis Skelly. Image credit: @now_arsenaI/X

Arsenal Red Card: Premier League explains why Michael Oliver’s decision was correct

Kolawole Babatunde 18:51 - 25.01.2025

Arsenal supporters were left stunned on Saturday when Myles Lewis-Skelly was controversially sent off during the first half of their 1-0 victory over Wolves. The Premier League has since provided an explanation for the decision.

The 18-year-old midfielder received a straight red card from referee Michael Oliver in the 43rd minute for what was deemed “serious foul play” in Arsenal's 1-0 victory over Wolves.

While the dismissal prompted outrage among Arsenal fans online, the Premier League Match Centre has clarified the reasoning behind the decision.

In a statement, they explained: “The referee’s call of a red card for Lewis-Skelly was checked and confirmed by VAR, who deemed his challenge to have been serious foul play.”

However, fans and pundits still did not agree with the decision despite the attempt made by the Premier League to justify it.

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How many matches will Lewis-Skelly miss?

As a result of the red card, Lewis-Skelly will now face a suspension, which could see him miss Arsenal’s upcoming matches. The severity of the suspension will depend on the nature of the foul, as per Premier League rules:

A one-match ban is issued for offences such as pulling an opponent back to deny a clear scoring opportunity.

A two-match ban applies for dissent.

A three-match ban is reserved for violent conduct or dangerous tackles.

Arsenal may choose to appeal the decision in an effort to overturn the ban. If successful, Lewis-Skelly could avoid missing multiple games, but for now, the Gunners will likely have to navigate without the promising youngster.

Ricardo Calafiori's goal was enough to help the Gunners secure three points, leaving them second in the table and six points behind leaders Liverpool.

Next up for Arteta's men is a trip to Spain where they face Girona in the Champions League before welcoming Manchester City to the Emirates next weekend.

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