David Raya questions Saliba’s red card ahead of Liverpool | OneFootball

David Raya has questioned the red card shown to William Saliba during Arsenal‘s recent 3-1 defeat to Bournemouth, suggesting it should have only been a yellow.

That’s according to a report from The Mail on Sunday, which highlighted the Gunners’ ongoing discipline issues this season.

BOURNEMOUTH, ENGLAND: Match Referee, Robert Jones shows a yellow card to William Saliba of Arsenal during the Premier League match between AFC Bournemouth and Arsenal FC at Vitality Stadium on October 19, 2024. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)

Arsenal‘s defensive woes continued last week as William Saliba was sent off for hauling down Bournemouth striker Evanilson, leaving Mikel Arteta without his best defender for today’s crucial clash with Liverpool.

This was the third dismissal for the club in their first eight league matches, putting further strain on Arsenal’s title ambitions.

Raya spoke candidly about the situation: “Saliba was trying to do the right thing, and in my opinion, it is a yellow,” he said. “A red card changed the contest in every game. It’s hard enough to win in the Premier League with 11 players, imagine it with 10 players in three games!”

Raya argued that while Saliba’s dismissal was harsh, the red cards shown to Declan Rice and Leandro Trossard were ‘silly’ mistakes that the Gunners must learn from if they are serious about winning the title.

LONDON, ENGLAND: Declan Rice of Arsenal interacts with match referee Chris Kavanagh after being shown a second yellow card during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Brighton & Hove Albion FC at Emirates Stadium on August 31, 2024. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)

The Gunners have struggled when down to 10 men, dropping points in each game that featured a sending-off.

Raya also shared his thoughts on Liverpool, who have been flying under new manager Arne Slot. “I think they’ve increased their level compared to last season,” Raya said, acknowledging the challenge that awaits Arsenal in today’s clash.

He stressed the importance of keeping 11 players on the pitch to have any chance of keeping pace with Liverpool and other title contenders.

The last time Arsenal faced Liverpool, they secured a 3-1 victory, which was met with exuberant celebrations—including Mikel Arteta sprinting down the touchline and Martin Odegaard picking up a photographer’s camera.

These actions drew some criticism, but Raya insists that the passion displayed by the team is a reflection of their determination. “If we win on Sunday, it’s going to be the same emotions and same celebrations,” Raya said.

As Arsenal look to correct their disciplinary issues, Raya’s message is clear: avoid unnecessary red cards if they want to stay in the title hunt.

A disciplined display against Liverpool is crucial, and keeping 11 players on the pitch will be key if Arsenal hopes to maintain their challenge for the Premier League crown.