What Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice said to referee Robert Jones following Arsenal defeat to Bournemouth

Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice was clearly frustrated following the Gunners’ 2-0 defeat to Bournemouth, and his emotions spilled over in a heated exchange with referee Robert Jones. After Arsenal’s William Saliba was controversially sent off, Rice was heard telling Jones after the game, “Every week it’s the same,” expressing his frustration with what he perceives as inconsistent officiating.

The match saw Saliba receive a red card for a challenge on Bournemouth striker Evanilson, a decision that has sparked significant debate among fans and pundits. The red card, upgraded from a yellow following a VAR review, left Arsenal with ten men and ultimately contributed to their defeat. But speaking in his post-match interview, the midfielder conceded that mistakes from his own teammates were ultimately to blame.

We’ve kicked ourselves in the foot three times in eight games and we got away with it at home to Brighton and away at Manchester City. Bournemouth kept probing and made it 2-0,’ Rice said.

I’m proud of the players for fighting, even with 10 men, but the naivety, we need to stop making mistakes because you want 11 players for 90 minutes and that’s what wins you football matches.

‘With 10 men we showed a lot of character and personality to stay in the game. The big chance was Martinelli’s and the keeper read it and made a great save and one minute later, normally a routine we are so strong at, has done us.

‘We can’t make silly mistakes. You need all your best players on the pitch at all times. The belief is so high and we will stick together. This is football, whatever happens the most important thing is that you stick together and stay in the right direction.’

Rice’s comments highlight a growing sense of frustration within the Arsenal camp over recent officiating decisions. This latest incident adds to a series of contentious calls that have gone against the Gunners, leading to questions about the consistency and fairness of refereeing in the Premier League.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta also expressed his concerns, emphasizing the need for clearer guidelines and better communication from match officials. Arteta and his team are determined to address their disciplinary issues and focus on improving their performance on the pitch, but the recurring nature of these controversial decisions continues to be a source of irritation.

Rice, known for his leadership qualities, called for greater composure and resilience from his teammates, urging them to learn from these setbacks and channel their frustration into positive performances.