We cannot continue at this level’ – Mikel Arteta admits Arsenal need to ‘eradicate’ red cards after unwanted habit proves costly in defeat to Bournemouth – but Gunners could appeal William Saliba dismissal

William Saliba, who was sent off in the first half against Bournemouth last Saturday, became the third Gunners star, after Declan Rice and Leandro Trossard, to be sent off in the club’s opening eight Premier League outings of the 2024-25 campaign. After the game, Rice had expressed his frustration over the French defender’s sending off and now manager Arteta has addressed the issue.

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  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  The Spanish coach advised his players to remain calm on the pitch and avoid picking up unnecessary red cards as it would hurt their title aspirations in the long run. The Arsenal boss also revealed that the club could consider appealing Saliba’s dismissal. For now, the France international remains suspended for their upcoming Premier League clash against Liverpool next Sunday.

  WHAT MIKEL ARTETA SAID

  Speaking to reporters, the 42-year-old said, “Playing with ten men always is an issue. The truth is, when you analyse it, three different actions and the outcome of them, the reasons are very different. Regardless of that, we cannot continue to play with ten men at this level.

  “We need to eradicate that, it’s clear. The reasons, how – it doesn’t matter. We have to focus. We cannot continue to play with ten men, easier to say it than to get it done. Specific moments. Reacting, we have a defeat. Very specific conditions as well. Let’s move on, take that pain we have and use it tomorrow night.”

  When asked if they would appeal Saliba’s red card, the manager added, “I leave that one to the club to understand the circumstances. The examples that are very clear in the same position and they will have to decide.”

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  WHAT NEXT FOR ARSENAL?

  The North London side will be back in action in the midweek as they take on Shakhtar Donetsk in a Champions League clash at home on Tuesday.