David Raya, Jurrien Timber, Riccardo Calafiori and Gabriel Martinelli all suffered cramps in the second half at the Etihad Stadium, leading to accusations of time-wasting.

But Arteta says the Gunners will play without injured players for Wednesday’s EFL Cup clash with Bolton.

“I always prefer facts over words or assumptions,” Arteta said.

“Let’s see who’s available tomorrow. Then we can talk about the dark arts or something like that.

“Unfortunately, there will indeed be a few players unavailable.”

Asked if the injuries he sustained against City were serious, Arteta said: “We have to wait. One of them.”

Trossard was shown his second yellow card at the Etihad Stadium after kicking the ball away following a foul on Bernardo Silva.

It was the second time this season that an Arsenal player had been sent off for such a foul, with Declan Rice being sent off against Brighton in August.

Asked if he should warn his players about the rule, Arteta said: “Because you throw the ball? I think so… just leave the ball, don’t touch the ball. We play without the ball.”