An independent panel has reviewed the decision not to show a red card to Arsenal defender Gabriel after he kicked Chelsea goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez during a Premier League match on September 6. Gabriel's left boot struck Martinez in the face while several players were fighting for a loose ball near the ground. The on-field referee, Chris Kavanagh, did not take any action, and the video assistant referee (VAR), Darren England, supported that decision. The Key Match Incidents (KMI) panel, which includes former players, coaches, and officials from the Premier League and Pro Ref, reviewed the incident and confirmed that no red card was warranted. The panel stated that Gabriel’s action was not considered violent conduct or serious foul play, given the chaotic nature of the situation. The KMI panel is responsible for reviewing key decisions in Premier League matches and providing guidance on whether officials made the right calls. In this case, the panel agreed with the referee and VAR, stating that the action was not severe enough to merit a red card. The decision has sparked some debate among fans and pundits, but the panel’s report reinforces the officials’ original judgment. In a separate development, Arsenal reportedly reached out to Pro Ref earlier this week for clarification regarding a penalty awarded to Sunderland in their match on September 12. The penalty was given after Arsenal’s Ezri Konsa was penalized for holding Sunderland’s Dan Ballard. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta criticized the decision as “unacceptable,” adding to the growing concerns about VAR decisions in the Premier League. These incidents occur amid increased scrutiny of the VAR system, particularly after a controversial goal by Manchester City’s Erling Haaland in the Manchester derby on Sunday. Haaland scored despite teammate Enzo Fernandez being in an offside position and interfering with play. Pro Ref admitted that the VAR team made an “error of judgement” in not recommending a review of the situation. The organization has since contacted Manchester United to acknowledge the mistake and confirmed that a review of the incident will take place.