Arsenal will be without their star striker
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is set for a spell on the sidelines after his red card against Crystal Palace was upheld despite an Arsenal appeal.
The Gabon striker was sent off for a reckless challenge on Max Meyer.
Aubameyang caught Meyer very high on the ankle, but the player was thankfully unharmed.
After initially getting a yellow card, VAR was consulted and the decision was overturned, with the referee handing Aubameyang a straight red card instead.
Quite surprisingly, Arsenal decided to appeal that decision this week.
It was claimed: ‘The club believe Aubameyang did not use excessive force when making the tackle and that it looked far worse when slowed down for replays.
‘They also believe there are plenty of examples of similar challenges which have been looked at by VAR this season that have not led to a red card being shown.’
Now, the result of their appeal has been announced.
LONDON, ENGLAND – JANUARY 11: Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang of Arsenal celebrates after scoring his team’s first goal with teammate Alexandre Lacazette during the Premier League match between Crystal Palace and Arsenal FC at Selhurst Park on January 11, 2020 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Dan Istitene/Getty Images)
Aubameyang to miss Sheffield United, Chelsea & Bournemouth
As reported by Sky Sports, that appeal was rejected on Wednesday.
As a result, Aubameyang will miss games against Sheffield United and Chelsea, as well as their FA Cup clash with Bournemouth.
That could be a huge loss for Arsenal, with the striker scoring 14 Premier League goals so far this season.
Speaking after the decision had been announced, Mikel Arteta commented on Aubameyang’s absence.
“It’s a big shame and a big loss for us,” he explained, as quoted by Sky Sports.
“But unfortunately he mistimed the tackle, he made a decision and we have to accept it.
“He was very sad after the game, he was disappointed. It was an action that was completely accidental in my opinion.”
Atletico Madrid could reportedly offer up Thomas Lemar in deal for Arsenal’s Lacazette
Aubameyang’s strike partner, Alexandre Lacazette, could leave the club in the near future.
According to reports, Atletico Madrid are weighing up an offer which would include Thomas Lemar.
