Why Mikel Arteta will miss Arsenal’s clash with Southampton as manager’s touchline absence confirmed

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Arsenal’s 1-0 win over Newcastle didn’t leave Mikel Arteta entirely happy for one pressing reason.

On their fourth attempt this season, Arsenal beat Newcastle, winning 1-0 against Eddie Howe’s side in the final home game of the campaign. 

The Emirates was given a sublime send-off as Declan Rice netted the match-winner in style, striking the ball just after the interval to give the Gunners the lead. 

Though the win saw Arsenal return to winning ways and clinch Champions League qualification, Arteta won’t be heading home with a smile on his face. 

• READ MORE: Arsenal fans send Mikel Arteta a clear message as ‘ludicrous’ player causes chaos against Newcastle

Mikel Arteta suspended for Arsenal’s last game of the season

Arteta’s touchline antics are a driving force for the Arsenal squad, but sometimes, the boss has been scolded for being a nuisance in his box. 

Against Newcastle, referee Simon Hooper booked Arteta for delaying the restart, which means the Arsenal manager will miss the last game of the season at St Mary’s. 

Arteta will serve a one-match touchline ban after receiving his third yellow card of the campaign, keeping him away from the action for the final 90 minutes of the 2024/25 calendar.

It was a frustrating, but ironic outcome for Arteta, who was threatened with a touchline ban in the penultimate game of last season too.

Tedious season for Arsenal and delaying the restart

Some thought it was harsh that Arteta was booked for delaying the restart, but the truth is, the Arsenal manager should understand the repercussions more of doing so than anyone. 

The Gunners have come up against some wildly controversial decisions this season, with the most frustrating instance being the punishment for slowing play down. 

Rice was sent off against Brighton in remarkable circumstances, and weeks later, Leandro Trossard was shown a red card for delaying the restart against Manchester City. 

Some will say Arteta’s punishment was harsh, and some would’ve expected the boss to know better, but unfortunately, the outcome will not change.