Arsenal suffer first league defeat of the season against Bournemouth; William Saliba’s sent off

• Arsenal suffer first league defeat of the season to stay third.

• Kluivert doubles the lead from a penalty after Raya fouls Evanilson.

• A set-piece goal by Christie to give Bournemouth the lead.

• Saliba given a Red Card following a VAR check for a last-man foul.

Match Report

William Saliba was shown a first-half red card that allowed Bournemouth to claim a shock win against Arsenal. Leandro Trossard’s poor pass set the stage leading to Saliba committing a last-man foul of Evanilson near the center circle. Initially given a Yellow, Referee Robert Jones changed his decision to a red following a VAR check as the Gunners were reduced to 10 men for the third time this season.

Bournemouth had the man-and-game advantage from then on. They pilled on the pressure as the Gunners tried their best to defend again with 10 men. Alas, this time, they weren’t successful, as late goals clinched the win for the home team. The Cherries’ breakthrough came in the 70th minute when a clever corner routine allowed substitute Ryan Christie to slam home an emphatic finish.

Arsenal’s evening soon turned worse as Justin Kluivert calmly converted a penalty after David Raya had brought down Evanilson. The Gunners’ best chance to score came via substitute Gabriel Martinelli. But he missed by shooting too close to Kepa Arrizabalaga after the Bournemouth goalkeeper gifted possession to full debutant Mikel Merino just outside his own box.

The defeat is Arsenal’s first in a Premier League away game this year. They risk slipping four points behind leaders Liverpool by the end of the weekend, whom they will face without the suspended Saliba next. Bournemouth, meanwhile, celebrated a deserved victory. It was their first win against a top-six side under Andoni Iraola, which takes them into the top half of the league table.

Mikel Arteta will be left frustrated with how things panned out. Arsenal have already incurred 3 red cards at the start of the new season. Not to forget the injuries of Odegard and Saka add to their selection woes in the upcoming matches. It would be interesting to see how they take on in-form Liverpool next time.