‘It was a horrible challenge’ – Arsenal's Merino slams Chelsea's Caicedo over red-card tackle

Arsenal midfielder Mikel Merino did not hold back after Moisés Caicedo’s reckless challenge earned the Chelsea star a straight red card in the fiery 1–1 draw at the Emirates.

The Spaniard, who later rescued a point for the Gunners, expressed frustration and relief in equal measure as he reflected on the moment that turned the game on its head.

Chelsea’s Moisés Caicedo experienced an unwanted first on derby night, as the Ecuadorian was sent off for the first time in his Premier League career, in what was also his 130th appearance in the competition.

His dismissal places him among an exclusive list, becoming the seventh Chelsea player ever to be sent off against Arsenal in the Premier League and the first since David Luiz back in September 2017.

The incident came after a late, heavy challenge from Caicedo, one that left Mikel Merino both shocked and in pain.

Speaking to Sky Sports, the Arsenal midfielder said, “I felt my ankle go all the way but luckily I have very mobile ankles and body. I knew it was a horrible challenge and it was going to be a red card.”

Despite the controversy, Merino still stamped his mark on the game in a more positive way by scoring Arsenal’s equaliser.

His well-timed run and header from a cross reflected rehearsed precision, something he was quick to note after the match, saying, “It’s something we train every day, and try to position ourselves on the blind side of the defenders. When you train with each other every day, you know your strengths and weaknesses.”

Trevor Chalobah had earlier given Chelsea the lead in the second half, taking advantage of a defensive lapse, but Merino delivered a point for the Gunners, scoring his second Premier League goal of the 2025/26 campaign to ensure the Gunners avoided defeat.

Reflecting on the game’s chaotic flow, Merino added: “This is the Premier League. It’s very strong and it’s why you see so many transitions. If you win a duel, then you can attack the box.”

In the end, the match will be remembered not just for the goals but for Caicedo’s mistimed challenge, Chelsea’s frustration, and Arsenal's relief to escape with a point.