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David Luiz | "It was not the team’s fault, it was my fault"

Arsenal defender David Luiz held his hands up after a horror show in the Gunners 3-0 defeat to Ma...



David Luiz |
Soccer

David Luiz | "It was not the team’s fault, it was my fault"

Arsenal defender David Luiz held his hands up after a horror show in the Gunners 3-0 defeat to Manchester City.

The Premier League resumed behind closed doors after 100 days after a three-month break due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta was forced into a couple of early changes due to injuries so Luiz was brought on in the 24th minute as a replacement for Pablo Mari.

Luiz was on the pitch for a total of 25 minutes and in that time he was at fault for two goals and got sent off.

The Brazilian failed to clear the ball properly for Raheem Sterling's opener and his night was done four minutes into the second half when he pulled back Riyad Mahrez, giving away a penalty and receiving a red card.

After the game, Luiz accepted he was to blame and he also talked about his contract situation at the club.

The 33-year-old's current deal expires at the end of June but clubs can extend beyond that date due to the season being extended.

"It [defeat to Manchester City] was not the team’s fault, it was my fault," Luiz told Sky Sports.

"Today I think the team did well, especially with 10 men, the coach is amazing, the players did amazing, it's just my fault.

"I took the decision to play, I should have taken another decision in the last two months, but I didn't. It was all about my contract, whether I stay or not. I have 14 days to be here, and that's it. Today was my fault.

"I don't want to use it as an alibi or an excuse, but it's my fault and that's it.

"I love to be here, that's why I continue to train hard, that's why I came here today, that's why I've tried to do everything, that's why I'm here putting my face up, that's why I said to the players no one had to speak, I'm happy to show my face and be here.

"I want to stay, the coach knows, he wants me to stay, and we are just waiting for the decisions."

Arteta, who refused to point all the blame at Luiz, said he was unsure if Luiz will be still at the club in July.

"I don’t know what will happen with his contract," Arteta said.

"I know what happened today. I know the way David reacted because I know him well, not only as a player but a person as well.

"There was a reason why I didn’t select him from the start and he had to play because Pablo got injured. He’s always going to try and give you his best."

There was no place for Mesut Ozil in Arsenal's extended 20 man squad but Arteta was brief with his explanation for leaving the former World Cup winner out.

"It was a tactical reason, I need players in other positions as well, so that’s why I decided to leave him out."

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Arsenal Brazil David Luiz Manchester City Mikel Arteta Premier League