Roy Keane and Micah Richards found themselves in a heated exchange during their analysis of the thrilling 2-2 draw between Manchester City and Arsenal on Sky Sports.
The match lived up to its billing as an instant classic, featuring a stunning long-range goal from a defender, on-pitch confrontations, a red card, and a dramatic last-minute equalizer.
Richards was effusive in his praise for Arsenal’s performance, stating that City would be disappointed with the outcome. He highlighted the exceptional play of Gabriel and William Saliba, calling their contributions “unbelievable” and a “remarkable” display.
"Gabriel and Saliba were UNBELIEVABLE… just REMARKABLE"
"Arsenal have done well, but City were REALLY POOR!!"Micah Richards and Roy Keane in disagreement over the outcome of Manchester City's draw with Arsenal 💬 pic.twitter.com/irDcs2zpm4
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) September 22, 2024
In response, Keane countered, “They’ve conceded two goals; they can’t have defended that well.” Richards argued that it was an achievement to perform strongly against “one of the best teams the Premier League has ever seen.”
Keane maintained his stance, asserting, “It’s happened before where teams can get results with ten men. We’re making it sound like they did something extraordinary. Arsenal did well, but City were really poor—no movement, no overlaps, nothing. It was more about City’s poor play than Arsenal’s brilliant defending.”
Richards pointed out that Saliba and Gabriel effectively kept Erling Haaland—the “best striker in world football”—quiet in the second half, to which Keane retorted, “He scored.”
Richards continued to emphasize Arsenal’s brave tactics, noting that they started strong but shifted to a low block in the second half to defend vigorously. Keane dismissed this strategy, stating that defending in a low block is “the easiest part of football.”
The discussion prompted mixed reactions from fans. One supporter agreed with Keane, commenting, “Keane is right here; even I could have coached that Arsenal defensive performance. City were just poor.”
However, another fan questioned Keane’s perspective, saying, “Maybe City were poor because Arsenal did so well? Ever think of that, Roy?”
The exchange highlighted the differing views on both teams’ performances, emphasizing the high stakes of their Premier League rivalry.
Credit: Sport Bible
