In the 11th round of the Premier League in the early morning, Arsenal drew 2-2 away with Sunderland. In the 7th minute of the game, Merino was hit by Ballard's elbow in the head while fighting for the top in the opponent's penalty area and fell to the ground in pain. The referee did not make a penalty on the ball.
After the game, according to the "Sun" report, many fans expressed dissatisfaction and believed that this should be a foul and Arsenal should get a penalty kick.
Fans spoke:
"An elbow to the face is not a foul??"
"An elbow in the penalty area is not a foul? Wow!"
"How can Arsenal not be awarded a penalty kick?? That elbow was intentional."
"An offensive player was preparing to head the ball in the penalty area, but was elbowed, resulting in a penalty kick. Unable to touch the ball. Why is this not a foul?"
"The football/referee rulebook needs major reform, otherwise this may be a phenomenon unique to the Premier League."
"That elbow foul was more serious than many handballs."
Fortunately, Merino can continue to play after being examined and treated by the team doctor.