Arsenal defender, William Saliba will miss next Sunday’s highly-anticipated Premier League matchup against Liverpool due to a red card received during Saturday’s game at Bournemouth.
The France international was initially given a yellow card for pulling back Evanilson but was later upgraded to a red card after referee Rob Jones reviewed the incident on the pitchside monitor.
The decision came after VAR intervention, which advised Jones to re-examine the tackle. Upon review, Jones deemed Saliba’s challenge a last-man tackle, warranting a red card.
This marks Saliba’s first red card of the season and Arsenal’s third, following similar incidents involving Declan Rice and Leandro Trossard earlier this season.
According to Premier League rules, Saliba will serve a one-match suspension, forcing Arsenal to adjust their defensive lineup against Liverpool.
Manager Mikel Arteta will need to rely on alternative options to fill the void left by Saliba’s absence.
Arsenal’s defensive depth will be put to the test against Liverpool’s potent attack. The Reds have scored 22 goals in their last 5 Premier League matches, with Mohamed Salah and Roberto Firmino leading the charge.
The Gunners have conceded 12 goals in their last 5 matches, and Saliba’s absence may exacerbate this issue.
Arsenal currently sits third in the Premier League table, 5 points behind leaders Manchester City.
The match against Liverpool presents a crucial opportunity for Arsenal to close the gap, but Saliba’s suspension complicates their chances.
