Arsenal Fans Question Gabriel’s Yellow Card After Sunderland Clash
Arsenal supporters were left baffled after Gabriel Magalhães was shown a yellow card late in the Gunners’ 2-0 victory over Sunderland, with many questioning the referee’s decision.
Arsenal maintained their perfect start to the 2026/27 Premier League season with a hard-fought win at the Stadium of Light. David Raya had earlier denied Enzo Le Fée from the penalty spot before Bruno Guimarães opened his Arsenal account with a stunning strike following his summer transfer from Newcastle United.
Bukayo Saka then sealed the victory from the penalty spot deep into stoppage time, giving Arsenal a fourth league win from four matches.
But referee John Brooks’ decisions continued to attract attention. Mikel Arteta was furious after Sunderland were awarded a penalty, calling the decision “unacceptable at this level.”
The controversy continued late in the match when Gabriel was booked during a confrontation involving players from both sides.
Sunderland substitute Wilson Isidor appeared to pull Bruno Guimarães up by his shirt while the Brazilian was on the ground. Gabriel then stepped in, pushing a couple of Sunderland players away before seemingly trying to separate his teammates and prevent the situation from escalating.
To Gabriel’s surprise, Brooks showed him a yellow card.
The decision left Arsenal fans confused, with some questioning why the defender was punished when he appeared to be trying to calm the confrontation.
According to Flashscore, Gabriel’s booking was recorded as unsportsmanlike conduct, apparently relating to his initial pushes during the incident.
While the decision may have been technically justified, many Arsenal supporters felt the punishment was harsh given Gabriel’s apparent attempt to defuse the situation.
Despite the controversy, Arsenal continued their impressive run. The victory extended their Premier League winning streak to nine matches, their longest since the famous 2003/04 Invincibles campaign.
Arteta’s side will next face Ipswich Town in the Carabao Cup before returning to Premier League action against Brighton.
