The English Premier League, renowned for its thrilling football and passionate fan base, has also been a stage for some of the most unforgettable controversies in the world of sports. From shocking brawls to biting incidents and headbutts, these controversies have etched their names into the league’s history books. In this article, we journey through the top 10 biggest English Premier League controversies, each leaving an indelible mark on the beautiful game.
10. Dyer and Bowyer Fight (2005) – Teammates Turned Rivals
In an unexpected turn of events during a Newcastle vs. Aston Villa match in April 2005, teammates Lee Bowyer and Kieron Dyer, considered among the best Premier League strikers, came to blows on the pitch. Bowyer accused Dyer of not passing the ball, leading to a brawl between them. Both players were sent off and later faced bans and fines, with Bowyer’s punishment including a record fine of six weeks’ wages.
9. The Battle of Old Trafford (2003) – ‘The Battle’ Goes Too Far
A heated encounter between Manchester United and Arsenal in September 2003, dubbed ‘The Battle of Old Trafford,’ escalated into a mass brawl. Arsenal’s Martin Keown jumped on Ruud van Nistelrooy, sparking a melee. Several players received bans and fines, and Arsenal was fined for failing to control their players’ behavior.
8. Terry Racial Slur (2011) – John Terry’s Controversial Remark
In a match against QPR in October 2011, Chelsea’s John Terry allegedly directed a racial slur at QPR’s Anton Ferdinand. While not guilty in a criminal court, Terry was found guilty by the FA, receiving a four-match ban, a £220,000 fine, and losing the England captaincy, leading to Fabio Capello’s resignation.
7. Pardew Headbutts Meyler (2014) – The Pardew Headbrush
In a bizarre incident, Newcastle United’s manager Alan Pardew, known for his stint as a one of the best Premier League players, headbutted Hull City’s David Meyler during a touchline confrontation. Pardew was sent off, handed a seven-game ban, and fined £60,000. Meyler humorously mocked the incident in a later match, adding a unique twist to this controversy.
6. Fowler ‘Sniffing’ Celebration (1999) – Robbie Fowler’s Provocative Act
Liverpool’s Robbie Fowler scored a goal against Everton in 1999 and celebrated by pretending to sniff the white line of the penalty area, responding to drug-use accusations. Despite a four-match ban and a £32,000 fine, Fowler remained unapologetic, citing the need to respond to Everton fans’ abuse.
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5. The Battle of Old Trafford (2003) – ‘The Battle’ Goes Too Far
A heated encounter between Manchester United and Arsenal in September 2003, dubbed ‘The Battle of Old Trafford,’ escalated into a mass brawl. Arsenal’s Martin Keown jumped on Ruud van Nistelrooy, sparking a melee. Several players received bans and fines, and Arsenal was fined for failing to control their players’ behavior.
4. Terry Racial Slur (2011) – John Terry’s Controversial Remark
In a match against QPR in October 2011, Chelsea’s John Terry, a controversial figure rather than the worst Premier League player, allegedly directed a racial slur at QPR’s Anton Ferdinand. While not guilty in a criminal court, Terry was found guilty by the FA, receiving a four-match ban, a £220,000 fine, and losing the England captaincy, leading to Fabio Capello’s resignation.
3. Pardew Headbutts Meyler (2014) – The Pardew Headbrush
In a bizarre incident, Newcastle United’s manager Alan Pardew headbutted Hull City’s David Meyler during a touchline confrontation. Pardew was sent off, handed a seven-game ban, and fined £60,000. Meyler humorously mocked the incident in a later match, adding a unique twist to this controversy.
2. Fowler ‘Sniffing’ Celebration (1999) – Robbie Fowler’s Provocative Act
Liverpool’s Robbie Fowler, often regarded as an underrated Premier League player, scored a goal against Everton in 1999 and celebrated by pretending to sniff the white line of the penalty area, responding to drug-use accusations. Despite a four-match ban and a £32,000 fine, Fowler remained unapologetic, citing the need to respond to Everton fans’ abuse.
1. Cantona’s Kung-Fu Kick (1995) – A Moment of Madness
Eric Cantona, Manchester United’s iconic figure, is remembered not just for his achievements but for his kung-fu kick on a Crystal Palace fan during a match in January 1995. After being sent off, Cantona reacted violently to abuse from the stands. His actions resulted in a prison sentence (converted to community service), suspension, fines, and a bizarre press conference quote that remains in Premier League folklore.
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Wrapping It Up!
As the English Premier League continues to captivate football enthusiasts worldwide, it’s essential to remember that it’s not just about the goals and glory; it’s also about the moments that leave us bewildered and amazed. These top 10 English Premier League controversies stand as a testament to the league’s drama, intensity, and unpredictability. They remind us that football is not just a sport; it’s a rollercoaster of emotions, where the unexpected can unfold at any moment, making the Premier League the spectacle that it is today.
