Arsenal await William Saliba ban decision with Liverpool and Newcastle United tests ahead as PGMOL issues a statement about the controversial red card…

Arsenal is currently awaiting a decision from the Premier League regarding the duration of William Saliba’s suspension following his red card during the 2-0 loss to AFC Bournemouth on Saturday night.

With important games against Liverpool and Newcastle United on the horizon, Arsenal is waiting for a verdict on the ban concerning William Saliba.

The 23-year-old defender received the red card after a VAR review determined he had fouled Bournemouth striker Evanilson.

Initially shown a yellow card by referee Rob Jones, the decision was upgraded to a red based on VAR’s recommendation, resulting in a mandatory suspension.

While straight red cards can lead to a ban of up to three matches, such penalties are typically reserved for violent conduct.

There is a possibility that Saliba may only face a one-match suspension, which would allow him to participate in the match against Newcastle United at St James’ Park on November 2.

However, this would mean he would miss the upcoming clash with Liverpool next weekend, although he would still be eligible to play in the Champions League fixture against Shakhtar Donetsk on Tuesday.

This incident marks the third red card for Arsenal this season, with Leandro Trossard and Declan Rice also having been sent off previously.

Regardless of Saliba’s situation, manager Mikel Arteta may still need to address other challenges ahead of the Newcastle match next month.

Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard were absent during the Bournemouth defeat, along with defender Jurrien Timber.

Odegaard is expected to return for the Liverpool match, while Saka’s availability remains uncertain due to an injury sustained while on international duty.

If Saliba is indeed suspended, Jakub Kiwior is likely to step in alongside Gabriel in the central defense.

This match will be the third consecutive challenging fixture for Newcastle, who are coming off a 1-0 loss to Brighton and will face Chelsea twice in the coming days, first at Stamford Bridge in the Premier League next Sunday, followed by a Carabao Cup fourth-round match at home on October 30.