Arsenal Fans Fume as Controversial Referee Michael Oliver Appointed for Wolves Clash

WOLVERHAMPTON, England — Arsenal fans are bracing for a tense Premier League clash against Wolverhampton Wanderers this weekend after the league confirmed Michael Oliver as the match referee. The appointment has reignited memories of a controversial red card decision involving Arsenal’s Gabriel Martinelli during a 2022 encounter between the two teams.

Arsenal, currently chasing league leaders Liverpool, will face Wolves at Molineux Stadium on Saturday. The Gunners are looking to build on their recent Champions League victory over Dinamo Zagreb, but concerns over Oliver’s officiating have overshadowed the buildup. Oliver will be assisted by Stuart Burt, James Mainwaring, and Tony Harrington, with Darren England and Adrian Holmes overseeing VAR at Stockley Park.

Oliver’s history with Arsenal includes a contentious decision in February 2022, when he issued two yellow cards to Martinelli within seven seconds, resulting in a red card. The Brazilian forward was penalized for delaying a restart and committing a cynical foul during a Wolves counterattack. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta expressed frustration at the time, calling it “the first time I’ve seen a red card like this in 18 years.”

Arteta has been vocal about his dissatisfaction with refereeing decisions this season, particularly after Oliver sent off Leandro Trossard in a 2-2 draw against Manchester City earlier this year. “I prefer not to comment,” Arteta said after the incident. “It’s that obvious, so I’ll leave it to you guys.”

Wolves, sitting just one place above the relegation zone, are in a precarious position. Key players Matheus Cunha and Mario Lemina have been linked with January exits, adding to the team’s challenges. Despite their struggles, Wolves have proven to be a tough opponent for Arsenal in recent years, though the Gunners have won their last seven meetings.

Arsenal fans took to social media to express their concerns about Oliver’s appointment. One supporter tweeted, “Wasn’t he the referee that put us down to 10 men against Man City earlier this season?” Another joked, “Martinelli will be pleased!” referencing the 2022 incident.

As Arsenal prepares for the match, Arteta may have to rely on his existing squad due to injuries. Ethan Nwaneri and Riccardo Calafiori returned to the matchday squad recently, but key players remain sidelined. A front three of Trossard, Martinelli, and Gabriel Jesus is expected to lead the attack.

With Oliver in charge, Arsenal fans are hoping for a fair and uneventful match, but history suggests tensions could run high at Molineux.