September 23rd 2024.
Following Manchester City's 2-2 draw with Arsenal on Sunday, defender Kyle Walker found himself in a heated exchange with referee Michael Oliver. Walker, who had just seen his team's lead slip away after a brilliant goal from Riccardo Calafiori, was frustrated with the way he was treated in the build-up to Arsenal's first goal.
The game had started off on a fiery note, with both teams showing their determination to come out on top. However, things took a controversial turn when Oliver called the captains of both teams, Walker and Bukayo Saka, over to discuss a free-kick for Arsenal. As the two captains were talking to the referee, the free-kick was taken quickly, catching Walker off guard and allowing Martinelli to set up Calafiori for the equaliser.
Walker was understandably upset about the situation and expressed his frustration in an interview with Radio 5 Live. He made it clear that he was not trying to criticize anyone, but simply felt that he was unfairly caught out of position by the quick free-kick. He also mentioned that he and Saka had not gone to talk to the referee on their own, but were called over by him.
The goal caused a stir on both sides, with Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola raging on the sidelines and Arsenal taking the lead shortly after. Guardiola later admitted that he was initially annoyed with Walker, but after hearing his player's explanation, he also felt that the referee was in the wrong. He warned officials that players will not go and talk to them if this kind of situation continues to happen.
However, despite Arsenal's lead, the game was far from over. The Gunners were reduced to 10 men after Leandro Trossard picked up a second yellow card just before half-time, giving Manchester City a numerical advantage. The home side continued to press for an equaliser and were rewarded in the dying minutes of the game when John Stones found the back of the net, salvaging a point for Manchester City.
Overall, it was a tense and controversial game, with both teams showing their determination to come out on top. Despite their frustration, both Walker and Guardiola acknowledged the difficult job that referees have and the pressure they face from players. However, they also made it clear that players need to be given the chance to get back into position before any quick free-kicks are taken. Otherwise, they may not be as willing to go and talk to the referee in the future.
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