Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta demands no repeat 'red card drama' in Brighton clash

By SABC Sport
27th December 2025

Mikel Arteta has made it clear he wants no repeat of last season's costly red card drama as Arsenal prepared to face Brighton at the Emirates Stadium in the Premier League today.

The Arsenal manager said the memory of Declan Rice's controversial dismissal against Brighton last season was still fresh. Rice was sent off after receiving a second yellow card for delaying a restart, a decision that proved decisive. Arsenal were leading 1-0 at the time but were forced to settle for a 1-1 draw after playing with ten men.

"I remember it very well," Arteta said. "I was very pissed off in the manner that we played with 10 men, so hopefully it is going to be very different next time.

"I think the rules are different now. We paid a big price for that rule. Hopefully that stays away, and we continue to play with 11 players."

Arsenal go into the match sitting at the top of the Premier League table, two points clear of Manchester City. City could move one point ahead earlier in the day if they beat Nottingham Forest, increasing the pressure on Arteta's side.

Discipline has been a clear focus for Arsenal this season. The club received six red cards in the Premier League last term, but they have yet to have a player sent off in the league so far this campaign.

Arteta also confirmed Kai Havertz was closing in on a return after knee surgery. The 26-year-old has not featured since Arsenal's opening league match of the season but has recently returned to training.

"He was quite close, and it will be a matter of days," Arteta said. "Let's see how he responds to the next step, but he is a player that we have missed a lot and a player who brings another dimension to the team.

"I will be very happy to have him back soon."

There is also a note of caution over Gabriel Martinelli, who will face a late fitness test after picking up a knee injury against Crystal Palace in midweek.

With the title race tight and memories of last season still lingering, Arteta has made his message clear: Arsenal must keep their discipline and finish the job with eleven players on the pitch.