Arsenal travelled to the Vitality Stadium to face Bournemouth, hoping to continue their strong record on the south coast against Andoni Iraola’s side.
Mikel Arteta’s side had several injury problems heading into the game, and Bukayo Saka and Jurrien Timber were unavailable for the game.
Ben White, Kai Havertz and Thomas Partey shook off injury scares to make the game, but it was a difficult one for Arsenal.
Centre-back William Saliba was sent off for denying a goalscoring opportunity when bringing down Brazilian striker Evanilson, and he will now miss Arsenal’s clash with Liverpool.
Goals from Ryan Christie and Justin Kluivert handed Bournemouth the win, in a game which included several controversial refereeing decisions.
Here’s how Arsenal fared on a tough evening at the Vitality Stadium.
Arsenal player ratings vs Bournemouth
David Raya: 6/10
Gave one ball away in the first half which went unpunished. Stood strong with some important saves after Arsenal went down to 10 men. Gave away a penalty, but was put in a tough position by Jakub Kiwior.
Ben White: 6/10
Fairly tidy on the ball at times in the first half. Picked up a yellow card in the second half which would have made Mikel Arteta nervous.
William Saliba: 5/10
Was unfortunate with his red card as he was put in a difficult spot from Trossard’s pass. Was solid when on the pitch.
Gabriel Magalhaes: 6/10
Strong at the back in tough circumstances, after losing his partner. Could not do anything about either Bournemouth goal.
Riccardo Calafiori: 6/10
Battled hard on the left side but failed to make an impact going forward, albeit in tough circumstances.
Declan Rice: 7/10
Imperious in the tackle and had some bright moments going forward. composed on the ball and led Arsenal well despite the result.
Mikel Merino: 6/10
Played some nice passes forward and was fierce in challenges, before being replaced after the second goal. Sometimes sloppy in possession.
Thomas Partey:
Some nice passes as he dictated play well in the first half. Quiet second period.
Leandro Trossard: 4/10
At fault for the red card after hoofing a reckless backpass to Saliba. Struggled to get into the game. Not his night.
Raheem Sterling: 6/10
Had some promising moments going forward but also frustrated with a few attempts. Withdrawn for Jakub Kiwior shortly after Saliba’s red card.
Kai Havertz: 7/10
Battled well upfront, had little support after the red card. Drove Arsenal forward with his dribbling, which was particularly useful after going down to 10.
Substitutes:
Gabriel Martinelli:
Was bright when he came on. Missed a good chance to take the lead after hitting a shot straight at Kepa Arrizabalaga.
Jakub Kiwior: 3/10
At fault for the second goal after his poor backpass led to the penalty. Really disappointing display.
Gabriel Jesus: N/A
Came on with very little time left to make an impact. Made one tidy dribble.
Ethan Nwaneri: N/A
Solid on the ball in his few minutes off the bench.
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