Referee slammed for 'very rash' yellow card in Arsenal-Man City final

Former Arsenal defender Matt Upson criticized the decision to book Piero Hincapie early in the Carabao Cup final.

Mar. 22, 2026 at 5:13pm

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A controversial refereeing decision involving Piero Hincapie became one of the early talking points as Arsenal faced Manchester City in the Carabao Cup final at Wembley. Referee Peter Bankes quickly brandished a yellow card to the Arsenal defender following a challenge on Matheus Nunes, drawing immediate criticism from former Arsenal player Matt Upson, who felt the decision was "very rash" and that the contact was "nowhere near a booking".

Why it matters

The early yellow card to Hincapie had the potential to shape Arsenal's defensive approach for the remainder of the high-stakes final, as the South American was set to join the Gunners permanently in the summer after an agreed deal worth around €52 million. With notable absentees in Arsenal's lineup, Hincapie's disciplinary status became an important factor against Manchester City's attacking threats.

The details

Referee Peter Bankes booked Piero Hincapie in the early stages of the Carabao Cup final between Arsenal and Manchester City at Wembley. The Ecuador international was adjudged to have arrived 'very late' on Matheus Nunes in midfield, prompting the yellow card from the referee.

  • The incident occurred in the opening stages of the Carabao Cup final between Arsenal and Manchester City at Wembley.

The players

Piero Hincapie

An Ecuador international defender who is set to join Arsenal permanently in the summer after an agreed deal worth around €52 million.

Matheus Nunes

A Manchester City player who was involved in the challenge that resulted in Hincapie receiving a yellow card.

Peter Bankes

The referee who brandished the yellow card to Hincapie in the Carabao Cup final.

Matt Upson

A former Arsenal defender who was critical of the referee's decision to book Hincapie, describing it as "very rash" and that the contact was "nowhere near a booking".

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What they’re saying

“First big moment for referee Peter Bankes. Piero Hincapie arrives very late on Matheus Nunes in midfield and the ref gives the Arsenal man a yellow card.”

— Matt Upson, Former Arsenal defender

“Piero Hincapie doesn't really catch Matheus Nunes. The referee was very rash with that yellow card, it was nowhere near a booking.”

— Matt Upson, Former Arsenal defender

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.