Arsenal will face a significant challenge in their crucial match on September 15, right after the international break, as they will be missing Declan Rice, one of their key players. Rice is sidelined due to a red card he received in their recent game against Brighton.
Rice was dismissed in the second half of the Brighton match after receiving his first yellow card for a late tackle on Brighton’s Joel Veltman. He then got a second yellow card for not retreating quickly enough during a Brighton free kick. According to the Premier League’s official Match Centre, the second yellow card was issued because Rice delayed the restart of play.
Losing Rice is a major setback for Arsenal, as he plays a crucial role in their midfield. Former Premier League referee Mike Dean explained on Sky Sports that players had been warned before the season began that delaying the game, such as by kicking the ball away, would result in a yellow card. Despite Rice’s minor infraction, the referee had to issue a second yellow card in accordance with the rules, leading to his ejection.
Dean noted that Rice’s attempt to prevent Brighton from quickly restarting the game contributed to the decision, and Brighton’s player took advantage of the situation, anticipating trouble for Rice.
Compounding Arsenal’s difficulties, manager Mikel Arteta revealed that another key player, Mikel Merino, sustained an injury before the Brighton game. Merino, a new signing who had been performing well, might have suffered a fracture. Arteta described the situation as unfortunate, as Merino injured his shoulder during training and is experiencing significant pain. Further tests are needed to assess the severity of the injury.
With both Declan Rice and Mikel Merino unavailable, Arsenal will face Tottenham without two crucial midfielders, presenting a tough challenge as they strive to maintain their strong early-season performance.
