Merino criticizes harsh tackle by Caicedo in Chelsea-Arsenal draw

Mikel Merino, Spanish player, did not hesitate to call Moisés Caicedo’s tackle a “horrible tackle” after the Chelsea midfielder was sent off for a foul in the first half of the match against Arsenal, which ended in a 1-1 draw at Stamford Bridge. Merino, who is also an international player for Spain, scored the equalizing goal for Arsenal in the second half, matching Trevoh Chalobah’s initial goal for Chelsea. This result secured a crucial point for the Gunners, keeping them five points clear of Manchester City at the top of the table. The key moment of the match came in the 38th minute, when Caicedo was sent off by referee Anthony Taylor after a VAR review, due to a hard tackle on Merino. The impact, with the studs of his right boot, hit the ankle of the 29-year-old player.

Merino was able to continue playing after receiving treatment. The footballer stated that he knew immediately that Caicedo’s tackle deserved a red card.

I felt my ankle move completely, but fortunately I have very mobile ankles and body. I wasn’t worried about my safety, but obviously I knew it was a horrible tackle and that it was going to be a red card immediately.

Mikel Merino

Merino added that, being a London derby, there is always passion. The tackle that led to the red card was hard and difficult. It’s what is expected in this league and on this field, it’s a match for adults and you have to step up. When asked if Caicedo had apologized or spoken to him after the play, Merino replied: “No. Nothing”. Referee Taylor showed seven yellow cards during the intense match, and Merino highlighted that the toughness of the match highlights the nature of the Premier League. Merino concluded by saying: “This is the Premier League. It’s very strong and that’s why you see so many transitions. If you win a duel, you can attack the area.” The footballer added that it was a very difficult stadium to get a point. We could have done things better, maybe managing the match a little better and understanding what they were trying to do, how they were pressing and how they were playing man-to-man so aggressively. But the team showed a good mentality. With 10 men, we could have been more patient with the ball. Trying to find the wings and cross with players in the area. But obviously, they are a good team.