Arsenal get clear referee verdict on Mikel Merino red card controversy vs Aston VillaArsenal beat title rivals Aston Villa 4-1 on Tuesday night, but were fortunate to keep Mikel Merino on the pitch when only two goals in front. View 2 Images Arsenal midfielder Mikel Merino was fortunate to avoid a second yellow card against Aston Villa. (Image: (Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images))Arsenal have been told by an ex-Premier League referee that Mikel Merino should've been sent off against Aston Villa. When questioned whether it crosses a referee's mind that a player has already been cautioned, Halsey replied: "Not every challenge is a [yellow card emoji], Mark." ‌View 2 Images Mikel Arteta was overjoyed by Arsenal's display and win against Aston Villa.

Source: Daily Mirror January 01, 2026 03:01 UTC