An independent panel has confirmed that officials were correct in not issuing a red card to Arsenal defender Gabriel for kicking Chelsea goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez in the head earlier this month. The incident took place on September 6 at the Emirates Stadium during a scramble for a loose ball, where Gabriel's left boot made contact with Martinez's face.
Referee Chris Kavanagh took no action on the pitch, a decision endorsed by VAR Darren England. The Key Match Incidents (KMI) panel, which includes former players, coaches, and representatives from the Premier League and Pro Ref, reviewed the situation and fully supported the officiating team.
The panel's report, published on Wednesday, stated, "The panel unanimously supported the referee’s call of no red card." It added that Gabriel's action was not deemed an act of violent conduct or serious foul play, given multiple players were on the ground competing for the ball.