Arteta risks Everton’s suspension, all hinges on the match with Manchester United

His current tally of yellow cards could see him miss the final game of the season – a potential blow for the Gunners. However, many question whether Arteta’s secondary behavior really warrants such scrutiny, suggesting that the UK media and officials may be unfairly targeting him.

LONDON, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 17: Referee Tim Robinson shows a yellow card to Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Brighton & Hove Albion at Emirates Stadium on December 17, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images)

Arsenal’s title race with Manchester City just got a lot more tense, but not for the reasons fans might expect. Manager Mikel Arteta is walking a tightrope, facing a potential one-match ban if he picks up another yellow card against Manchester United. Losing the final game of the season against Everton would be a major blow.

Arteta currently holds the dubious honor of the Premier League manager with the most yellow cards this season, a staggering five. However, many fans find this statistic puzzling. Some media outlets in the UK have been accused of a vendetta against Arteta, with his passionate behavior on the touchline attracting a disproportionate amount of the scrutiny we all know goes to referees.

Comparisons are made with other managers who have displayed arguably worse behavior on the pitch with minimal repercussions. Inconsistency in officiating and media attention on Arteta leave many questioning the fairness of his disciplinary record.

The pressure of a title chase is immense and secondary emotions can run high, although Arteta has certainly toned things down this season.