Footage of an Andy Madley tunnel conversation with Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhães has prompted scrutiny after Liverpool’s 1-0 defeat by Arsenal at Anfield.
The video appears to show the referee speaking casually to Gabriel before the second half and warning him that he had already committed two fouls. The exchange was presented as light-hearted, but its timing angered Liverpool supporters who were already unhappy with several decisions during the match.
Fans on social media criticised Madley’s conduct and called for answers from PGMOL, with some questioning whether the referee had appeared too familiar with an Arsenal player during the game.
Penalty decision adds to scrutiny of Andy Madley
The reaction intensified after Liverpool were denied a penalty following an incident involving Alexander Isak and Jurrien Timber.
Replays appeared to show the Arsenal full-back grabbing and pulling Isak’s shirt inside the area as the Liverpool striker attempted to reach a cross. Madley allowed play to continue, while VAR official Stuart Attwell did not recommend that the referee review the incident on the pitch.
Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola described the decision as a “clear penalty” after the match and questioned why players were seemingly required to go to ground to win such decisions.
Arsenal secured victory through Kai Havertz’s goal, recording their first Premier League win at Anfield in 14 years. The result moved Mikel Arteta’s side clear at the top of the table after Manchester City suffered a 1-0 defeat against Brighton.
The disputed penalty and the tunnel footage have combined to place Madley’s performance under further scrutiny. The exchange with Gabriel does not, in itself, establish any wrongdoing, but it has become a major talking point following a fiercely contested match.
