New Delhi: Arsenal’s hard-fought 1-0 victory against Wolves was overshadowed by a controversial refereeing decision that left Mikel Arteta seething. Despite maintaining their Premier League title charge, Myles Lewis-Skelly’s first-half dismissal became the main talking point.
The incident occurred in the 43rd minute when the 18-year-old fouled Wolves’ Matt Doherty on the edge of Wolves’ box. A quick counter-attack was on the cards, but Lewis-Skelly’s high challenge halted the play. Referee Michael Oliver immediately brandished a straight red card, a decision that was upheld after a VAR review.
After the match, Arteta voiced his anger, calling the decision “obvious” and suggesting his words weren’t needed to underline its flaws. While Arsenal managed to secure three points through Riccardo Calafiori’s 74th-minute winner, the red card reignited debates about inconsistent officiating and VAR’s reliability.
What happened in Wolves vs Arsenal?
How can this be a red card on Myles Lewis Skelly.
Ridiculous! pic.twitter.com/faBJFDFmy7— Imanuel (@Manuel_PoG) January 25, 2025
Myles Lewis-Skelly’s challenge came during an Arsenal corner. Wolves cleared the ball, and Doherty surged forward on a potential counter. In his attempt to stop the attack, Lewis-Skelly caught Doherty above the ankle with a sliding tackle. Oliver wasted no time in sending the teenager off, a decision supported by VAR despite calls for a pitchside review.
The Premier League’s rules classify high, forceful contact above the ankle as dangerous, warranting a red card. However, many argued that the challenge lacked the intensity or intent to endanger an opponent. The dismissal marked the fourth red card for Arsenal this season, fuelling frustrations among fans and staff alike.
Why was Mikel Arteta furious?
📲 Ian Wright’s thoughts on Myles Lewis-Skelly’s red card on Instagram, which the defender liked. ❤️
🗣️ “It’s a JOKE! It’s never a red… the inconsistency, the excuses, the apologies, all of them are centre of attention.” 🤬 pic.twitter.com/bfzsOE5Aa1
— DailyAFC (@DailyAFC) January 25, 2025
Arteta’s anger stemmed from the perceived lack of consistency in refereeing decisions. Speaking after the match, he said the incident was “so obvious” it didn’t require his elaboration. His frustration was palpable as Arsenal had to adjust to being a man down against a Wolves side also reduced to 10 players later in the game.
Arteta’s history with controversial calls this season adds to the narrative. From Declan Rice’s dismissal against Brighton to a contentious penalty decision involving William Saliba, Arsenal have repeatedly found themselves on the wrong end of VAR reviews.
Pundits like Alan Shearer labelled the red card “one of the worst decisions” in recent memory, citing the absence of speed, intensity, or danger in the challenge. Arteta’s refusal to confirm whether Arsenal would appeal highlighted his disillusionment with the system.
Reactions from football pundits and fans
“It was never ever a red card.” 🗣@alanshearer doesn’t hold back on VAR after Myles Lewis-Skelly’s red card against Wolves 😳#MOTD pic.twitter.com/5ycQThR7NH
— Match of the Day (@BBCMOTD) January 25, 2025
Former players and analysts offered mixed opinions. Alan Shearer argued it was “clearly not a red card,” criticising VAR for failing to intervene. Former referee Mike Dean, however, supported the decision, citing the point of contact as justification.
Fans were equally divided. Some felt Lewis-Skelly’s challenge was reckless, while others pointed out worse tackles that hadn’t resulted in red cards. On social media, Arsenal supporters called for greater accountability from officials, with many questioning VAR’s purpose if such errors persist.
What’s next for Arsenal?
Mikel Arteta of Arsenal (Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images) (Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images)
Unless overturned, Lewis-Skelly faces a three-match ban, ruling him out of crucial fixtures against Manchester City, Leicester City, and Newcastle United. His absence comes at a critical time in Arsenal’s title race, where every point is vital.
Arteta and Arsenal will undoubtedly look to move forward, but the incident serves as a reminder of how controversial decisions can shape a season. Whether through improved officiating or clearer VAR protocols, the Premier League faces mounting pressure to address these inconsistencies.
Mikel Arteta was left furious after Myles Lewis-Skelly’s red card during Arsenal’s 1-0 win over Wolves. The decision, deemed “serious foul play,” sparked criticism from pundits, fans, and the Arsenal camp. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
