Just as he did against Brighton & Hove Albion a few weeks ago, Mikel Arteta was forced to reshuffle his Arsenal side following another red card against Manchester City.
If Declan Rice was unlucky a few weeks ago, it was hard to argue that his Arsenal teammate Leandro Trossard wasn’t just foolish on this occasion – he should have known better.
Trossard will protest that he didn’t hear the whistle, but he pulled out of his clearance in a way that looked like he definitely had.
Either way, Arsenal had to prepare to suffer at half-time and Arteta devised a game plan to defend in a 5-4-0 against one of the best teams on the planet for 45 minutes.
Of course, the Gunners came so close to winning, only to be denied by a late John Stones goal, a team visibly crestfallen on the Etihad turf.
That being said, once the dust settles, the Arsenal players will probably reflect on a point to be proud of.
Ian Wright baffled by Bukayo Saka decision at half-time
Speaking via the Premier League during the game, Ian Wright was a little unsure about one decision Arteta made at half-time.
In order to deploy Ben White as another centre-back, Arteta sacrificed Bukayo Saka, a decision very few expected.
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White was carrying an injury prior to kick off, but was willing to put his body on the line in exceptional circumstances.
Speaking about the call to sub Saka, Wright said: “Maybe the pace of Martinelli is going to be a major factor to keep City stretched. It is a big one for me. I can’t believe it.”
Of course, it was ultimately a choice between sacrificing Saka, Gabriel Martinelli or Kai Havertz.
Gabriel Martinelli was excellent for Arsenal, and as Wright suggests, there would have been very few better equipped than the Brazilian on the break, if the opportunity had arisen.
Moreover, it would have also been difficult to drop Havertz, completely surrendering a focal point.
Myles Lewis-Skelly deserves his opportunity against Bolton
After some incredibly tough away trips, Arsenal will now enjoy four consecutive games at home before the October international break.
Arteta’s side welcome Bolton to the Emirates Stadium for a third round EFL Cup tie on Wednesday.
And after his brief appearance against Man City on Sunday, Myles Lewis-Skelly may get another chance alongside the likes of Ethan Nwaneri and Raheem Sterling.
It would be a surprise if Arteta didn’t ring the changes – a chance to share minutes and also rest one or two who were cramping up at the Etihad.
Riccardo Calafiori was one of those who needed to be subbed towards the end of the game.
And following his performance and goal, Arsenal fans have had their say on Calafiori’s overall display.
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