Gueye Sent Off for Striking Keane in Everton-Man United Drama

Idrissa Gueye Red Card Shocks Everton in Manchester United Clash

Idrissa Gueye Red Card Sparks Controversy at Old Trafford

Idrissa Gueye red card headlines dominated the Premier League on Monday night as Everton midfielder Gueye was sent off for striking his own team-mate Michael Keane during a heated clash against Manchester United at Old Trafford. The shocking incident, occurring just 13 minutes into the match, left Everton reduced to ten men and sent social media and football fans into a frenzy over the referee’s decision.

Early Incident Echoes Bowyer v Dyer Brawl

The confrontation between Gueye and Keane evoked memories of the infamous Lee Bowyer and Kieron Dyer bust-up in 2005. Moments after Manchester United narrowly missed scoring, tension flared between the Everton duo. Gueye, visibly frustrated, approached Keane and appeared to strike him in the face. Referee Tony Harrington wasted no time, showing Gueye a straight red card for violent conduct as VAR confirmed the decision.

Referee and VAR Justify the Red Card

The Premier League’s match centre explained on X (formerly Twitter), “The referee’s call of red card to Gueye for violent conduct was checked and confirmed by VAR – with the action deemed to be a clear strike to the face of Keane.” The ruling sparked heated debate among fans and pundits, many questioning whether the incident truly warranted such severe punishment.

Mixed Reactions From Football Community

Sky Sports’ Gary Neville voiced his surprise at the incident and questioned the necessity of a red card, arguing, “It always looks unsavoury when it’s team-mate on team-mate. Gueye has gone towards Michael Keane, who hasn’t really reacted. There isn’t much in it. I think Jordan Pickford does a very good job to diffuse the situation.” Social media reactions ranged from disbelief to humor, with many referencing classic on-field bust-ups and lamenting the current state of football officiating.

Fan Backlash and the ‘Game’s Gone’ Chorus

Fans on X expressed frustration with the decision. One wrote, “That is the softest red card I’ve ever seen. If that was two United players, it’d never be a red.” Others called for an immediate dressing room interview or questioned if football is “a dying sport” due to strict officiating. Another fan simply summed it up: “Game’s gone.”

Idrissa Gueye Red Card Sets Unwanted History for Everton

Gueye’s dismissal marked another unwanted record for Everton, who, along with Arsenal, have now received more red cards than any other team in Premier League history—110 in total. Notably, Gueye became the first Premier League player to be sent off for fighting with a team-mate since Stoke City’s Ricardo Fuller and Andy Griffin in 2008.

Rules and Reflections: Was a Red Card Justified?

According to Premier League regulations, violent conduct includes “striking an opponent or any other person on the head or face with their hand or arm, unless the force used was negligible.” Neville reflected, “Was it negligible? That’s the question. I don’t think there was much in that at all. They were not fighting; it wasn’t a scrap. It could have been dealt with by a yellow.”

What’s Next for Everton and Manchester United?

Everton, now facing another disciplinary setback, will look to regroup as they prepare to host Newcastle United, while Manchester United travel to Crystal Palace. Both sides will be eager to put this dramatic incident behind them and focus on securing crucial Premier League points as December fixtures approach.

Opinion: Red Card or Overreaction?

While violent conduct must be addressed, the Idrissa Gueye red card seems harsh given the context and the lack of serious aggression. This incident serves as a reminder that while enforcing discipline is crucial, referees must apply common sense and consider the spirit of the game. More balanced officiating could help preserve the flow and passion of football that fans cherish.

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