All the elements of a memorable Premier League evening were present in the goalless draw between Arsenal and Liverpool on January 8, 2026. Throughout the evening at the Emirates, Arsenal had the majority of the ball, moving it swiftly and holding Liverpool back for extended periods of time. Even with that control, Liverpool’s defence held strong and there were few clear opportunities. Conor Bradley came the closest to scoring when his shot struck the crossbar, causing the home crowd to hold their breath. The visitors also had their moments. Frustration increased as the game went on, especially among the Arsenal players who were hoping for a late victory. Although there wasn’t much goalmouth action during the first half, the intensity remained constant. Liverpool defended, Arsenal probed, and neither custodian was put to the test. Sensing that a single moment could alter the outcome of the game, the crowd remained engaged. Arsenal became increasingly irritated as the game progressed. Liverpool maintained their shape, and the passing was tidy but predictable. In order to add pace and directness down the left, Mikel Arteta substituted Gabriel Martinelli for Trossard with about twenty minutes remaining. Arsenal’s attacks intensified as soon as Martinelli attempted to run at Bradley and drive into space. As The Gunners pushed forward again, Bradley landed awkwardly and fell near the touchline. Even though there was no challenge, he immediately stayed on the ground, clearly in pain. After play was stopped, the Liverpool medical team came to treat him. Bradley was lying on the pitch when Martinelli came over to him. In an apparent attempt to resume play as soon as possible, he dropped the ball on Bradley’s body, shocking many spectators, and then attempted to drag him to the sidelines. The Liverpool players immediately responded. Martinelli and Konaté were both given yellow cards as order was restored. Bradley, however, was still unable to play and had to be carried off on a stretcher, leaving Liverpool subsituting Joe Gomez onto the pitch to finish the game. The game, which had been without of drama but goals, came to an end shortly after the final whistle blew.
After the game, Martinelli’s actions took centre stage. Many felt he had gone too far, regardless of the pressure or frustration. In defence of his player, Arteta claimed that there was no malicious intent and that it was a mistake made in the heat of the moment. After Martinelli apologised, Bradley was observed using crutches to exit the stadium.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta on the touchline during the Premier League match at Emirates Stadium, London. Picture date: Thursday January 8, 2026.