Bernardo Silva Calls Out Arsenal’s Tactics

Bernardo Silva claimed that only one team came to play football in the thrilling 2-2 Premier League draw, implying that Arsenal resorted to “dark arts.” Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta described it as “a miracle” his side managed to stay competitive after Leandro Trossard’s controversial red card reduced them to 10 men just before halftime. John Stones equalized for City in the 98th minute, denying Arsenal what would have been a significant away victory.

Despite having only 12.5% possession in the second half, Arsenal managed to hold City at bay, who fired 28 shots—second only to their historic 2012 performance against QPR. Silva criticized Arsenal’s tactics, suggesting they played to the limits allowed by the referee. Frustrated by the officiating, Arteta expressed disbelief at his team’s performance under the circumstances.

He remarked that playing 56 minutes with 10 men against a strong team typically results in a heavy defeat. He also highlighted that Arsenal came close to becoming the first team to win at the Etihad since Brentford in November 2022. The match also featured controversy regarding Trossard’s sending-off which followed a similar situation involving Declan Rice.

Arteta chose not to comment directly on the officiating but mentioned that kicking the ball away is usually punishable. City’s defense suffered as they lost Rodri to injury early in the game. Bernardo Silva expressed concern over recurring time-wasting tactics in matches, arguing that the FA fails to enforce the rules effectively.

The match rich in drama and tension, highlighted the growing rivalry between City and Arsenal with Arteta wishing the focus had remained on the football rather than officiating issues.