Former Super Eagles star and coach, Sunday Oliseh, commended Arsenal’s performance against Manchester City, suggesting that the red card issued to Leandro Trossard just before halftime spared the Cityzens from what could have been a more substantial defeat.
The highly anticipated encounter, expected to be a tightly contested affair, defied expectations as both teams came out firing from the start.
Manchester City drew first blood within the opening ten minutes, with Haaland clinically finishing a well-timed pass from Savio to put the hosts in the lead.
Arsenal, however, responded with resilience. New signing Riccardo Calafiori equalized in the 22nd minute with a spectacular strike, bringing the Gunners level against the run of play.
Just before the interval, Gabriel Magalhaes rose highest to nod in a header, putting Mikel Arteta’s side ahead and seemingly in control of the game.
The mood at the Etihad shifted dramatically as Trossard received a controversial red card in stoppage time for delaying a restart.
Down to ten men, Arsenal had no choice but to adopt a more defensive approach, holding their ground against City’s relentless pressure. Despite their numerical disadvantage, the Gunners almost held on for a memorable victory, only to be denied by John Stones’ late equalizer.
Oliseh, former Dortmund and Milan midfielder, took to social media platform X to praise Arsenal’s spirited display, asserting that the dismissal of Trossard was pivotal. He believed that without the red card, City might have been on the receiving end of a heavy defeat.
“Arsenal totally deserved victory over Man. City,” Oliseh commented. “This doubtful red card saved Man City some thrashing from a well-organised Arsenal side in my opinion. Compact, direct playing with a world-class goalkeeper. Arsenal could be champions this year!”
His remarks reflect a growing belief among fans and pundits that Arsenal, with their strong start and tactical discipline, are genuine contenders for the Premier League title this season.
