Kyle Walker reportedly confronts referee Michael Oliver over Arsenal’s equalizer

Kyle Walker reportedly confronted Michael Oliver over Arsenal's controversial equalizer, during tunnel exchange.

Kyle Walker reportedly confronted referee Michael Oliver in the tunnel at half-time of Manchester City’s clash with Arsenal, following controversy surrounding Arsenal’s equalizing goal. Walker and his Manchester City teammates were angered by the circumstances leading to Riccardo Calafiori’s stunning equalizer in the 22nd minute, after they believed the free kick was taken while Walker was out of position following a discussion with Oliver.

Sky Sports cameras missed the initial build-up, but replays showed Oliver calling Walker over for a conversation just moments before Thomas Partey played in Gabriel Martinelli, who assisted Calafiori’s goal. According to BBC Sport reporter Simon Stone, Walker continued his protests in the tunnel during the half-time interval. Stone posted on X (formerly Twitter), "Kyle Walker making his point to Michael Oliver in the tunnel at half-time."

Fans were quick to support Walker after seeing replays of the incident. One fan remarked, "Replays showing Michael Oliver called Kyle Walker out for a chat when Arsenal were awarded their free-kick." Another added, "Walker clearly argued he had not got back into position when the pass was played out to Gabriel Martinelli."

Manchester City’s troubles worsened when Gabriel Magalhaes headed Arsenal into the lead in first-half stoppage time. Shortly after, Leandro Trossard was sent off for delaying the restart, leaving Arsenal with 10 men for the second half.