Hurzeler slams Arsenal tactics after narrow Brighton defeat

Brighton head coach Fabian Hurzeler has launched a scathing criticism of Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal following his side’s 1-0 defeat at the Amex Stadium, declaring that only one team attempted to play football and accusing the league leaders of bending the rules to their advantage.

Arsenal secured the narrow win courtesy of an early strike from Bukayo Saka — a goal that proved decisive in a game where the visitors managed just one shot on target for much of the contest. The result pushed the Gunners seven points clear at the summit of the Premier League table.

However, the outcome was marred by controversy, with Hurzeler expressing frustration over what he described as excessive time-wasting and questionable game management. He specifically pointed to Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya, alleging that the Spaniard went down three times during the match.

“Did you see in the Premier League a goalkeeper going down three times?” Hurzeler asked. “No. So we shouldn’t waste too many words about that. The Premier League has to find a rule.”

The Brighton boss argued that his side dominated statistically, limiting Arsenal to a single shot on target while carving out opportunities of their own. He conceded, though, that his players lacked the cutting edge required in the final third.

“We could have been more clinical, more calm and made better decisions,” he admitted, while commending his team’s overall display.

“I loved how they played football. I think there was only one team that tried to play football today, and therefore I’m proud of how they did it,” he added.

Hurzeler further stressed that he would never instruct his team to adopt similar tactics, insisting that supporters deserve a more entertaining brand of football and suggesting that few neutral fans would have enjoyed the spectacle.

In response, Arteta brushed aside the criticism with a pointed, “What a surprise,” implying that such remarks have become familiar whenever Arsenal grind out results.

The Arsenal manager stood firmly by his squad, saying: “I love my players. I love the way we compete.”

The tense encounter saw sections of the crowd voice their displeasure at perceived delays, with tempers flaring in stoppage time. Despite the uproar, Arsenal departed the south coast with three vital points and firm control of the title race — even if the manner of their victory continues to spark debate.