Gabriel Martinelli has claimed he was lucky to avoid a broken leg following a reckless challenge from Christian Norgaard during Arsenal’s 1-1 draw with Brentford — just days before their crucial Champions League second leg against Real Madrid.
The incident occurred in the first half at the Emirates on Saturday, with Norgaard flying in with a scissor tackle that left Martinelli in a heap. Despite protests from Arsenal players and manager Mikel Arteta, referee Simon Hooper showed only a yellow card — a decision upheld after a brief VAR review.
Speaking after the game, Martinelli didn’t hold back:
“He [Norgaard] said he didn’t mean it. I believe him, but still — he could’ve broken my leg. For me it was red. I need to see it again to be sure. But for me, it was nasty.”
Arteta offered a typically controlled but telling response when asked about the incident post-match:
“My reaction says everything.”
The challenge has sparked debate, with pundit Jamie Redknapp describing it as a “desperation tackle” and warning of the risks such moves pose:
“It’s a nasty tackle. Not a red by today’s standards, but definitely one that could cause serious injury. Martinelli is lucky.”
Brentford boss Thomas Frank insisted it was a “strong yellow,” while the incident raises fresh concerns for Arsenal ahead of Wednesday’s Bernabéu showdown, as they aim to protect a 3-0 first-leg lead over the reigning champions.