Arsenal Manager Mikel Arteta Frustrated Over Controversial Sending Off

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta expressed his frustration over the controversial sending off of Leandro Trossard during Arsenal’s 2-2 draw with Manchester City. The incident occurred just before half-time when the Belgian winger was shown a second yellow card by referee Michael Oliver for delaying the restart by kicking the ball away.

Arteta believes that this season could see “100 Premier League games” affected by similar dismissals, which could have a significant impact on the outcome of matches. The Arsenal manager stated that the decision was harsh and that Trossard did not deserve to be sent off.

Speaking after the match, Arteta said, “I think it’s harsh. I think he doesn’t deserve to be sent off. I think the first one is completely accidental. He’s stretching, he touches the ball, and then he touches the player. The second one, for me, he’s just trying to get out of the way of the ball. He’s not trying to waste time.”

The sending off of Trossard had a significant impact on the match, with Arsenal struggling to create chances against a dominant Manchester City side. However, the Gunners managed to salvage a point thanks to a late equalizer from Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.

Arteta’s frustration over the decision highlights the need for referees to exercise more discretion when it comes to issuing yellow cards for time-wasting. While it is important to maintain the pace of the game, referees should also consider the context of the situation and the impact that a sending off could have on the match.

Overall, the incident serves as a reminder of the importance of fair play and the need for referees to make decisions that are consistent and in line with the spirit of the game. As the Premier League season continues, it will be interesting to see how referees handle similar situations and whether Arteta’s prediction of “100 Premier League games” affected by similar dismissals comes true.