Arsenal manager Unai Emery has been charged by the FA for kicking a water bottle into the crowd and hitting a fan during the Gunner’s 1-1 draw to Brighton & Hove Albion on Thursday night.
Earlier, the British media predicted that the FA would not penalize Emeri because the fourth official did not include the matter in the referee report. However, after the media widely reported the incident, the FA could not sit still.
They announced at 5 pm local time on Thursday that they had filed a complaint against Emery, but he had the right to file a complaint before 6 pm next Wednesday. This means that on Sunday, Arsenal’s key battle against Liverpool, Emery will not be absent.
There’s also the fact game officials didn’t deem the incident worth making note of or chasing further. Emery is said to have spoken with the fourth official about his actions after offering his apologies to nearby supporters.
Former Paris St-Germain now faces an anxious wait to find out the exact nature of the punishment. Unfortunately, history says Emery may be wise to expect suspension.
“I expressed my apology yesterday. I was so angry that I kicked the level and didn’t want to hurt anyone. I hope they don’t ban me, but I respect the FA’s decision. It’s just impulsive, I didn’t mean it.” Emery said.
Arsenal manager Unai Emery appoligised for kicking a water bottle into the Brighton supporters. (Source:www.metro.news.com)
The British media expects that although Emery is accused, he should not be suspended from the penalty and will only be charged.
In 2016, former Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho received a one-match ban after being found guilty of a similar incident, but the reason why the FA was banned for the Portuguese, the level of kicking is only the last straw.
Arsenal will take on Fulham at the Emirates Stadium. Emery needs the points with Arsenal on a run of just two wins in the last six matches across all competitions.
Aside from draws against Manchester United and Brighton, Arsenal lost 3-2 away to Southampton and were knocked out of the Carabao Cup at the quarter-final stage by Tottenham.
The Spaniard had guided the Gunners to a 22-match unbeaten run in all competitions, but the recent struggles have left his team fifth and two points outside the top four.
