Notable Altercations Among Team-Mates Following Gueye’s Dismissal

Idrissa Gueye’s Controversial Red Card

Everton’s midfielder Idrissa Gueye became the fourth player in Premier League history to be shown a red card for an altercation involving a team-mate when he struck Michael Keane in the face during Everton’s 1-0 victory over Manchester United. Gueye’s actions led to his immediate expulsion from the match.

The incident, which occurred early in the game, is part of a rare occurrence in Premier League history, with only three previous red cards given for similar reasons. However, instances of team-mates clashing without receiving sanctions have been more common.

Let’s explore some of the most memorable conflicts between team-mates in football history.

Noteworthy Team-Mate Altercations

Bruce Grobbelaar vs. Steve McManaman – September 1993

Liverpool’s goalkeeper Bruce Grobbelaar lost his temper with Steve McManaman during a Merseyside derby when a misplay allowed Everton to score. The situation escalated as Grobbelaar shoved McManaman in frustration, leading to a scuffle on the pitch.

David Batty vs. Graeme le Saux – November 1995

During a particularly challenging Champions League match, Blackburn’s David Batty and fellow England player Graeme le Saux clashed over a loose ball. The confrontation resulted in Le Saux breaking his hand after striking Batty during an argument.

Lee Bowyer vs. Kieron Dyer – April 2005

In a famous incident, Newcastle players Lee Bowyer and Kieron Dyer turned on each other in front of astonished spectators. With their team already down a player and trailing 3-0 against Aston Villa, both players were shown red cards after exchanging blows, with Dyer receiving a three-match ban and Bowyer facing a seven-game suspension.

Emmanuel Adebayor vs. Nicklas Bendtner – January 2008

Following a League Cup semi-final defeat to Tottenham, Arsenal’s Emmanuel Adebayor and Nicklas Bendtner’s disagreement turned physical, resulting in a bloodied nose for Bendtner. The fallout added insult to injury following the team’s disappointing loss.

Ricardo Fuller vs. Andy Griffin – December 2008

Stoke City’s Ricardo Fuller and Andy Griffin found themselves embroiled in a heated exchange after a slip allowed West Ham to equalize. Fuller slapped Griffin, which led to his dismissal, compounding Stoke’s woes as they lost the match.

Anwar El Ghazi vs. Tyrone Mings – September 2019

During a goalless draw against West Ham, Aston Villa players Anwar El Ghazi and Tyrone Mings engaged in a heated argument when Mings criticized the winger for inadequate defensive effort. Their spat escalated to a headbutt attempt before being resolved at halftime.

Hugo Lloris vs. Son Heung-min – July 2020

As Tottenham led Everton, captain Hugo Lloris confronted Son Heung-min for his failure to track back. The brief altercation occurred as the players headed to the tunnel at halftime but was quickly forgotten when they returned to the pitch.

Ben White vs. Oleksandr Zinchenko – January 2024

After Arsenal’s narrow win over Nottingham Forest, a heated exchange between Ben White and Oleksandr Zinchenko necessitated intervention from staff. The fight stemmed from frustration after conceding a last-minute goal, though the incident was eventually diffused.

Jack Robinson vs. Vinicius Souza – February 2024

In a match against Wolves, Sheffield United teammates Jack Robinson and Vinicius Souza clashed on the field, resulting in a VAR check for a possible red card. Manager Chris Wilder dismissed the incident as a common occurrence in football.

These moments highlight the pressure athletes face and how competitive spirits can lead to on-field altercations, showcasing the complex dynamics within sports teams.