Arsenal Fans Outraged by No-Call on Merino Incident

London, England — Arsenal fans expressed anger during a recent Premier League match against Sunderland at the Stadium of Light. The frustration stemmed from a controversial decision involving Mikel Merino in the seventh minute of the game.

Merino was struck in the face by an elbow from Sunderland’s Daniel Ballard while attempting to head a cross. The incident left the Spanish international on the ground, requiring immediate medical attention. Referee Craig Pawson paused the match to evaluate Merino’s condition but chose not to award a penalty or issue a red card against Ballard, a decision that sparked outrage among Arsenal supporters.

“How is this not a penalty for Arsenal? That elbow was intentional,” one fan commented on social media, highlighting the call’s contentious nature. Another post called for changes in refereeing protocols, reflecting widespread discontent.

After receiving treatment, Merino returned to the pitch, stepping in as a striker due to the absence of Viktor Gyokeres, who is out until after the international break. This season, Merino has made 15 appearances and scored three goals, including a pair during a recent 3-0 Champions League victory against Slavia Prague.

The match grew more intense when Sunderland took a 1-0 lead in the 36th minute, adding pressure on Arsenal and its fans who remain buzzing from the earlier controversy.