The FA has published the written reasons as to why Myles Lewis-Skelly’s red card

Arsenal received positive news on January 25, 2025, after the Football Association (FA) upheld their appeal regarding Myles Lewis-Skelly’s red card against Wolverhampton Wanderers. The ruling, issued by an independent Regulatory Commission, confirmed that the dismissal was wrongfully handed out, providing a significant boost for the team as they prepare for crucial upcoming fixtures.

The controversy surrounding Lewis-Skelly’s red card was one of the most hotly debated decisions of the season. Referee Michael Oliver sent the Arsenal midfielder off in the 42nd minute during the match, after a challenge on Wolves defender Matt Doherty. The decision, which was made in real-time, left many fans and pundits questioning whether it was truly a red-card offense. Many had expected the incident to warrant a yellow card at most, but Oliver’s decision to issue a red card shocked those watching the game.

After the match, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta hinted that the club would likely appeal the decision, but emphasized that the final call would rest with the club’s judgment on what was in their best interests. The club’s decision to appeal was backed by the fact that similar red-card rulings had been successfully overturned in the past. Arsenal’s legal team reportedly planned to use the footage of Bruno Fernandes’ successful red card appeal as part of their case, hoping to strengthen their argument that the decision against Lewis-Skelly had been too harsh.

The FA’s confirmation that the red card had been wrongfully issued means that Lewis-Skelly will not face a three-match suspension, which would have kept him out of key fixtures. The timing of the appeal’s success couldn’t have been better for Arsenal, as the club is about to face some of the toughest competition in the Premier League, including a showdown against Manchester City on February 2. The Hale End academy graduate’s availability is seen as a crucial factor for Arteta’s plans, especially with the club’s current injury concerns.

The decision is also a significant morale boost for Arsenal, coming at a time when their squad has been stretched thin due to injuries and suspensions. With the red card now rescinded, Lewis-Skelly will be eligible to play in the upcoming matches, including the high-stakes Premier League clash against Manchester City, the Carabao Cup semifinal against Newcastle United on February 5, and the Premier League fixture against Leicester City on February 15. These matches are pivotal for Arsenal as they continue their push for domestic silverware and aim to keep pace with their rivals in the league.

The overturning of the red card marks the third successful appeal of its kind in the Premier League this season, following the reversals of decisions involving Manchester United’s Bruno Fernandes and Brentford’s Christian Norgaard. These precedents helped Arsenal build a solid case for the appeal, showcasing a trend in which incorrect red-card decisions are being corrected by the FA. The fact that clubs are having some success in appealing red-card rulings may lead to more teams questioning referee decisions in the future, particularly when a red card appears to be too severe for the nature of the offense.

For Lewis-Skelly, the ruling is a relief, as he has been an important figure for Arsenal in recent weeks. The 19-year-old has steadily established himself in the first team, with his performances earning him praise despite the club’s recent injury crisis. His ability to play multiple positions in midfield and his maturity on the ball have made him a key asset for Arteta’s side. His continued involvement in Arsenal’s upcoming matches will be crucial as they aim to maintain their competitive edge against top teams.

The incident also brings the spotlight back onto the issue of refereeing consistency, particularly regarding the application of red cards in the Premier League. While the vast majority of decisions made by officials are not subject to review, the recent reversals of controversial red-card decisions have raised questions about the process and the level of scrutiny involved in these rulings. Arsenal’s successful appeal adds to the growing conversation about how red-card decisions should be assessed and whether referees should be held accountable for mistakes that directly impact the outcomes of matches.

With the red card now rescinded, Arteta and his squad can focus on the task at hand, knowing that one of their key players will be available for selection in the coming weeks. Arsenal’s focus will now shift to their next matches, where they will need to maintain their momentum if they hope to challenge for trophies across multiple competitions. For Lewis-Skelly, the overturned decision is not only a personal relief but also a testament to the importance of the club’s legal and support staff in helping navigate such contentious moments.

Ultimately, the FA’s decision ensures that Lewis-Skelly will not be sidelined for the crucial fixtures ahead, including the showdown against Manchester City. Arsenal fans will be hopeful that the midfielder’s presence on the field will help the team push toward a successful run in the Premier League and Carabao Cup.