Arsenal's £30 million acquisition is facing intense scrutiny after being sent off for the second time in just three appearances, plunging his career at the Emirates into crisis.
The player, whose signing was meant to bolster the Gunners' squad, instead finds himself at the centre of a disciplinary storm that has left manager Mikel Arteta furious and questioning the investment.
A Costly Pattern Emerges
Saturday's match saw history repeat itself in the worst possible way for the struggling star. Just weeks after his first dismissal, another moment of madness saw the referee reach for his pocket, leaving Arsenal to battle on with ten men.
This latest sending-off marks a worrying pattern that has club officials deeply concerned about the player's temperament and decision-making under pressure.
Manager's Blunt Assessment
Arteta didn't mince words when addressing the situation post-match. "The behaviour is intolerable," the Spanish manager stated bluntly. "When you represent this club, there are standards that must be maintained. Letting your teammates down in this manner is simply unacceptable."
The manager's public criticism underscores the severity of the situation and suggests the player's position within the squad is now under serious threat.
Mounting Pressure on Club Hierarchy
This disciplinary nightmare compounds what has already been a difficult period for Arsenal's recruitment team. The substantial £30 million fee now looks increasingly questionable as the player struggles to justify both the financial outlay and the faith shown in him.
With each passing game, the pressure mounts not only on the player but also on those responsible for bringing him to North London.
What Comes Next?
The immediate future looks uncertain for the embattled star. Another suspension means more time on the sidelines, potentially opening the door for competitors to cement their places in the starting eleven.
Arteta now faces a crucial decision: whether to continue investing time in a player whose disciplinary record threatens to undermine team progress, or to cut his losses and look elsewhere for solutions.
