Rooney says Arsenal defender dodged red card as Carragher warns rivals

During a Champions League broadcast, former England striker Wayne Rooney argued that Arsenal centre‑back Gabriel Magalhaes was “extremely lucky” not to be sent off in the Sunday’s win over Chelsea. Arsenal edged the London side 2‑1, with goals from Kai Havertz and Martin Odegaard, after Morgan Rogers’ fine finish opened the scoring.

Early dominance and Chelsea’s opening goal

Chelsea took the lead inside five minutes when Morgan Rogers’ fine finish beat the Arsenal goalkeeper, putting the visitors on the back foot early in the Sunday afternoon clash. The early setback forced Arsenal to chase the game from the outset.

Arsenal restored parity through Kai Havertz, whose strike brought the teams level and shifted momentum in favour of the Gunners. The equaliser lifted the side’s confidence as the first half drew to a close.

The decisive blow came from Martin Odegaard, whose goal in the second half proved the match‑winner as Arsenal held on to claim victory. Their defensive organisation thereafter limited Chelsea’s chances.

Controversial challenge and post‑match analysis

A pivotal moment unfolded when Gabriel Magalhaes collided with Chelsea keeper Emiliano Martinez, striking the goalkeeper on the head with his boot. The incident sparked debate over whether a red card should have been shown.

Wayne Rooney, speaking on BBC’s, argued that Magalhaes was “extremely lucky” to remain on the pitch, adding that a replay showed the challenge went “way over the top”. Former Manchester United defender Ashley Young echoed the sentiment, questioning why VAR had not intervened.

Former Liverpool and England defender Jamie Carragher warned that Arsenal’s rivals should be “huge worry” about the club’s defensive solidity in the absence of William Saliba, who has not featured this season. He praised the performance of Ezri Konsa and the overall defensive display that kept Chelsea at bay.

The win reinforced Arsenal’s status as firm favourites for the Premier League title, signalling a strong start to the campaign and a reminder of the fine margins that can decide high‑stakes encounters. Their ability to defend a lead without Saliba will be closely examined by competitors.