Gary Neville Faces Ofcom Criticism After Arsenal vs. Liverpool Commentary Incident

Gary Neville has come under fire, receiving over 500 complaints to Ofcom following remarks made during Arsenal's Premier League match against Liverpool last week.

At the close of the goalless draw, Brazil forward Gabriel Martinelli drew frustration from Liverpool supporters and many neutral fans alike.

In a controversial moment, Martinelli attempted to push full-back Conor Bradley off the pitch to resume play, seemingly unaware of Bradley's serious injury. Although Martinelli later issued an apology, backlash ensued.

Gary Neville Critiques Martinelli's Actions

Neville didn't hold back in his criticism during Sky Sports commentary, expressing his dismay with Martinelli’s actions.

“You can't push him off the pitch,” Neville commented. “That is so poor. An apology is needed. Bradley is being stretchered off. I'm fuming with Martinelli, to be honest.”

He went on to add, “I don't know how the Liverpool players didn't go over and absolutely whack him, to be honest with you, and take a red card. Absolutely disgraceful, that.”

This outspoken commentary led to 576 complaints being filed to Ofcom, marking the highest number of complaints for a television broadcast in 2026.

Neville was not the only pundit to voice disapproval of Martinelli's behavior. Fellow commentator Roy Keane called the incident “an absolute disgrace,” while Daniel Sturridge remarked, “It’s disappointing to see. There's passion and there's being a winner, but you've got to be respectful as a footballer.”

Despite the scrutiny, Martinelli redeeming himself in his next match, scoring a hat-trick against Portsmouth in the FA Cup.

After the match, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta defended Martinelli, asserting he was unaware of the extent of Bradley's injury.

In an effort to mend fences, Martinelli reached out via social media, stating, “Conor and I have messaged and I’ve already apologised to him. I really didn’t understand he was seriously injured in the heat of the moment. I want to say I’m deeply sorry for reacting. Sending Conor all my best again for a quick recovery.”