The opponent’s kick changes the category
Law 11 permits a charge-down immediately after an opponent kicks the ball. A forward ball from that action is not treated like an ordinary handling knock-forward. The preceding kick is therefore part of the explanation.
Imagine a player closing on a clearance and the ball rebounding forward from raised arms. Contrast a player attempting to catch a pass, losing it forward onto the ground. Both final images show a ball moving ahead from the upper body, but the action immediately before contact differs.
Rewind beyond the bounce
A replay starting with the rebound can conceal the kicker completely. Follow the ball backwards to establish whether the defending player was blocking the kick or handling a different type of incoming ball.
This is also why a team may continue chasing a spectacular block while some viewers expect a whistle. The forward direction alone is not the whole test. The original illustration concerns the charge-down distinction; it does not excuse separate offside or foul-play issues. Keep the action’s category separate from other possible infringements in the same passage.
Questions answered
Is every forward rebound from arms a knock-forward?
No. A qualifying charge-down is treated differently.
What preceding event must the replay retain?
The opponent’s kick.
Sources & further reading
Official references for the subjects discussed. Service terms and device software can change.