Michael Oliver committed a mistake during Manchester City’s 2-2 draw with Arsenal. VAR could do nothing.
Michael Oliver was charged with officiating Manchester City’s 2-2 draw with Arsenal at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday.
The 39-year-old chose to show Leandro Trossard a second yellow card at the conclusion of the first half for kicking the ball away, and he also had to deal with a series of violent fights between Erling Haaland and Gabriel Magalhaes in the second half.
However, Michael Oliver made a mistake before dismissing Trossard that VAR could not correct.
What Michael Oliver got wrong at Manchester City 2-2 Arsenal
In our opinion, the guy from Ashington made a mistake by allowing Arsenal to take a fast freekick, which resulted in Riccardo Calafiori making it 1-1 in the 22nd minute.
Oliver waved Kyle Walker over to issue a warning to the England international, but would not allow the Manchester City No. 2 to return to his place before restarting the game.
Arsenal then took advantage of the space, with Gabriel Martinelli setting up Calafiori for a magnificent goal – his first for Arsenal.
Of course, Arsenal should be congratulated for their fast thinking, but after bringing Walker over for a discussion near the center circle – some 45 yards from his position on the right of defence – Oliver could have delayed the restart for a few seconds longer.
Given that it was a straightforward freekick – and there are no regulations against them – VAR could not interfere.
There was also a bizarre incident between Kai Havertz and Rodri just four seconds into the game, which VAR investigated but found no wrongdoing.
What Gary Neville stated about the Kyle Walker incident.
Gary Neville also noted what Oliver did.
Speaking live on Sky Sports commentary, the 49-year-old said: “He’s dragged him out of position but hasn’t allowed him to return. “I’d be annoyed.”
It was a controversy that lasted past the final whistle, with Pep Guardiola mentioning the event in his post-match interview, adding, “I admire my team. My team started well despite several interruptions, and after the first goal, the referee asked the leaders (Walker and Bukayo Saka) to speak.”
Nobody can blame the Manchester City players for refusing to go a long distance to speak with the referee the next time, as they will undoubtedly be scared of a repetition of this incident.
