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Arsenal news: Declan Rice punishment verdict reached as duo handed gutting blow

Arsenal are still reeling from their first defeat of the season, losing 3-0 away to Brighton in the Premier League.

Published: Tuesday, 22 September 2026 at 3:00 AM
Arsenal news: Declan Rice punishment verdict reached as duo handed gutting blow
Key Things to Know
  • Arsenal suffered their first defeat of the season in a 3-0 loss away to Brighton.
  • Declan Rice avoided a red card for an off-the-ball incident with Brighton's Malick Yalcouye.
  • Former referee Dermot Gallagher agreed that Rice's actions did not warrant a red card.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Arsenal suffered their first defeat of the season in a 3-0 loss to Brighton, with goals from Pascal Gross, Charalampos Kostoulas, and Chema Andres. During the match, Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice avoided a red card after an off-the-ball incident involving Brighton's Malick Yalcouye. Former Premier League referee Dermot Gallagher agreed with the decision, labeling the incident petulant but not violent conduct.

Arsenal defender Piero Hincapie will remain in London during the international break due to reported physical issues, missing Ecuador's upcoming fixtures under new manager Marcelo Gallardo. Additionally, Rice has pulled out of Thomas Tuchel's England squad for workload management, joining Chelsea's Cole Palmer in withdrawing from international duty.

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