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Is the frustrated Spanish manager's prediction of more chaotic games going to be proven right?
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta expressed frustration with the current state of Premier League officiating following Leandro Trossard's dismissal for time-wasting during their 2-2 draw against Manchester City.
The Belgian received his second yellow card for kicking the ball away after a foul was called, just before half-time, which mirrored a similar sending-off of teammate Declan Rice in a previous match against Brighton before the September international break.
What Arteta said
The Spanish manager sarcastically remarked that he "expects 100 Premier League games to be 10 against 11 or nine vs 10 this season" if such decisions continue.
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He highlighted an earlier incident involving City's Jeremy Doku, who appeared to kick the ball away without consequence, further fuelling his frustration.
“It’s that obvious that it’s not necessary to comment on it. It’s the second time,” said Arteta. “I’m expecting 100 Premier League games to be, 10 against 11 or nine vs 10 this season. Let’s see.”
The red card forced Arteta to make tactical adjustments at half-time, bringing on Ben White for Bukayo Saka. White's absence from the starting lineup was due to an injury concern, but he was forced to play longer than intended due to the circumstances.
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23:04 - 22.09.2024
'Referee saved Man City from thrashing' — Ex-Super Eagles coach praises Arsenal
Super Eagles legend Sunday Oliseh sang praises of Arsenal's resolute performance against Manchester City.
“Yeah,” said the Arsenal boss when asked if White had an injury. “We didn’t want to (play him that long), but we had to. I spoke to him yesterday and I wanted to protect him.
“He’s not going to ever tell you that he’s not fit. He will run through a brick wall for you. The intention was not to use him today. But I’m very grateful because he performed extremely well.”
What next for Arsenal?
The draw leaves Arteta’s team on 11 points after five games, two shy of Manchester City in the Premier League table.
Arsenal’s next league fixture sees them host Leicester City at the Emirates Stadium on September 28, hours after Man City's trip to Newcastle United.
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