Why was Moises Caicedo sent off for Chelsea against Arsenal?

Moises Caicedo received a straight red card after VAR review for a dangerous tackle on Mikel Merino, which was initially only a yellow card.

Which matches will Moises Caicedo miss for Chelsea?

Caicedo will miss Chelsea's upcoming matches against Leeds, Bournemouth, and Everton due to his red card.

Did VAR change the decision on Caicedo's foul?

Yes, VAR reviewed the incident and upgraded the initial yellow card for Moises Caicedo's challenge to a straight red card.

Home / Sports / VAR red card shocks Chelsea in heated Arsenal clash

VAR red card shocks Chelsea in heated Arsenal clash

30 Nov, 2025

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Summary

Moises Caicedo received a straight red card following a VAR review.
The midfielder's challenge on Mikel Merino was initially yellow-carded.
Caicedo will miss upcoming Chelsea matches against Leeds, Bournemouth, Everton.

VAR red card shocks Chelsea in heated Arsenal clash

In a fiery London derby between Chelsea and Arsenal, midfielder Moises Caicedo was controversially shown a straight red card. The incident occurred in the 35th minute when Caicedo made a high tackle on Mikel Merino. Referee Anthony Taylor initially issued a yellow card, but VAR intervened, spotting a studs-up challenge that the on-field official missed.

The VAR review determined Caicedo's challenge warranted a straight red card, leading to his immediate expulsion from the match. The physicality of the game escalated significantly after the decision, with Caicedo himself briefly seen on the ground after the tackle.

As a consequence of the red card, Moises Caicedo is suspended for Chelsea's forthcoming matches against Leeds, Bournemouth, and Everton. However, he will be eligible to play in the Champions League fixture against Atalanta scheduled for December 9.