Premier League Referee Under Fire for Controversial Red Card

Former Manchester United goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel has lashed out at referee Michael Oliver for sending off Arsenal’s Leandro Trossard during Saturday’s intense Premier League clash with Manchester City. The Belgian midfielder was shown a second yellow card and subsequently red carded for kicking the ball away after the whistle had been blown to award a free kick to the hosts.

The controversy unfolded just before halftime at the Etihad Stadium, with Trossard committing a foul on Manchester City’s Bernando Silva, leading to the referee’s initial stoppage of play. However, it was Trossard’s reaction to the whistle that proved the decisive moment, with Oliver opting to issue a second yellow card for dissent and subsequently send the Belgian off.

Schmeichel, a Manchester United legend and respected voice in the world of football, has publicly criticized Oliver’s decision, suggesting that the referee was seeking to take center stage. "This is the biggest game in the Premier League so far! Soft yellow cards! Why is Michael Oliver trying to ruin it? It’s a big game, emotions are flying high – understand what you are dealing with here, but no – Michael Oliver wants himself in the spotlight!" Schmeichel exclaimed in an interview.

The debate over the sending-off will likely continue, with opinions divided on whether Oliver’s decision was harsh or justified. As the Premier League’s most-watched fixture continues to capture the attention of fans around the world, Schmeichel’s criticisms have added fuel to the fire, sparking a fresh round of controversy and speculation in the world of English football.