Mikel Merino criticized Moisés Caicedo for a “horrible challenge” after the Chelsea midfielder received a red card following a first-half foul on the Arsenal forward during their match on Sunday that ended in a 1-1 draw at Stamford Bridge.
Merino, who plays for Spain, netted Arsenal’s equalizer in the second half, leveling the score after Trevoh Chalobah‘s goal for Chelsea in the 48th minute. This result left Mikel Arteta’s squad five points ahead of Manchester City at the top of the league.
The pivotal moment occurred in the 38th minute when referee Anthony Taylor issued a red card to Caicedo after a VAR review revealed the Chelsea player’s challenge on Merino, which connected with the ankle using the studs of his right boot.
After receiving extensive treatment, Merino continued playing and expressed that he sensed right away that the challenge would warrant a red card for Caicedo.
“I felt my ankle twist, but thankfully I have flexible ankles and body,” Merino told Sky Sports. “I wasn’t worried about my safety, but it was definitely a horrible challenge that deserved a red card.”
Regarding the intensity of the match, Merino added to the BBC: “It’s a London derby, so the passion is always high. The challenge that led to the red card was tough, which is to be expected in this league and at this venue. Everyone needs to step up.”
When asked if Caicedo had reached out to apologize after the incident, Merino responded, “No, not at all.”
Referee Taylor recorded seven yellow cards during this fiercely contested match, with Merino acknowledging that the physical nature of the game exemplified the Premier League’s competitive spirit.
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“This is the Premier League,” he noted. “It’s incredibly challenging, which is why you see so many transitions. Winning a duel opens up opportunities to attack the box.
“It’s always difficult to come here and take a point. We could have better managed the game and understood their aggressive pressing and man-to-man marking more effectively.
“However, the team displayed a strong mentality. With 10 men, we could have exercised more patience with the ball and explored width with crosses into the box, but they are a very good side.”