Gary Neville was unconvinced by a controversial incident involving Florian Wirtz during Liverpool’s meeting with Arsenal, labelling a key challenge as “careless” after Liverpool players angrily appealed for a penalty.
The first half at Anfield finished goalless despite Liverpool showing positive intent. Conor Bradley came closest to opening the scoring when his delicate chip over David Raya struck the crossbar, drawing a collective gasp from the crowd.
Although chances were limited before the break, the major flashpoint of the match came shortly after the second half began.
The moment occurred when Liverpool’s number seven picked up the ball just inside Arsenal’s penalty area. Showing close control and confidence, Wirtz slipped past two defenders and seemed to have created a clear shooting opportunity.
But as he prepared to strike, Leandro Trossard collided into him from the side.
The Arsenal winger did not get a touch on the ball and instead brought Wirtz down with an awkward challenge.
Moments later, Gabriel also grabbed hold of the German midfielder as he tried to get back to his feet, adding to Liverpool’s frustration.
Liverpool players immediately surrounded referee Anthony Taylor, calling for a penalty.
VAR reviewed the incident, but the officials at Stockley Park supported the referee’s original decision and ruled no spot kick should be given. Play resumed quickly, much to the annoyance of the home side.
Neville, working as co-commentator for Sky Sports, was clearly sceptical of the outcome. While he did not definitively say it was a penalty, he criticised Trossard for taking a risk.
“That was clumsy,” Neville said. “It was a big risk from Trossard.” His remarks suggested Arsenal were fortunate to escape without conceding.
From a VAR standpoint, the call hinged on the absence of a “clear and obvious error” from the on-field official.
Because Taylor initially allowed play to continue, the video officials did not believe the threshold had been met to intervene. However, it remains debatable what the outcome would have been if the referee had pointed to the spot in real time.
Given that Trossard arrived late, made significant contact with Wirtz, and failed to touch the ball, it is hard to imagine VAR overturning a penalty had one been awarded.
Similar challenges elsewhere in the Premier League have often resulted in spot kicks, which only intensified Liverpool’s sense of injustice.
As Neville hinted, the tackle was careless at best and potentially dangerous. Notably, Trossard was substituted soon after, possibly reflecting Mikel Arteta’s concern about another mistimed challenge.
Arne Slot may express his frustration afterwards, but the decision itself cannot be changed.
For Liverpool, the focus had to shift forward — keeping belief, staying composed, and trying to take advantage of any opportunities that arose against a well-organised Arsenal side at the top of the table.
