Mikel Arteta Admits Red Cards Are Costing Arsenal Dearly – But Gunners Could Appeal William Saliba Sending Off

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has acknowledged that his side needs to address their disciplinary issues after yet another red card proved costly in their defeat to Bournemouth.

Arteta Admits Red Cards Are Costing Arsenal

William Saliba became the third Arsenal player to be sent off in the club’s opening eight Premier League matches of the season, following Declan Rice and Leandro Trossard.

Arteta admitted that playing with ten men is a significant disadvantage and that his team must find a way to avoid these unnecessary dismissals.

“We cannot continue to play with ten men at this level,” Arteta said, ahead of Arsenal’s Champions League clash with Shakhtar Donestk.

“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.”

Arsenal Could Appeal Saliba Red Card

The Gunners boss also revealed that the club is considering appealing Saliba’s red card, but the final decision will be made by the club’s legal team.

🗣️ Mikel Arteta on if the club will appeal William Saliba’s red card:

“I will leave that more to the club. To understand the circumstances and as well other examples that are VERY clear in the same position.” 👀
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— DailyAFC (@DailyAFC) October 21, 2024

Arsenal’s disciplinary problems have been a major concern for Arteta, as they have hindered their progress in the Premier League. The team’s title aspirations could be severely impacted if they continue to lose players to red cards.

As Arsenal prepare to face Shakhtar Donetsk in the Champions League on Tuesday, Arteta will be hoping that his players can learn from their mistakes and avoid any further incidents that could derail their season.