‘Only one team tried to play’ – Brighton coach slams Arsenal

2026-03-05 - 10:27

By Enitan Abdultawab Brighton head coach Fabian Hurzeler launched a passionate attack on Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal after his side’s 1-0 loss at the Amex Stadium, insisting “only one team tried to play football” and accusing the league leaders of making their own rules. Arsenal secured victory through an early Bukayo Saka goal — their only shot on target for most of the match — to move seven points clear at the top of the Premier League. But the result was overshadowed by complaints over time-wasting and game management. Hurzeler claimed Arsenal crossed the line with their tactics, pointing to goalkeeper David Raya going down three separate times during the match. “Did you see in the Premier League a goalkeeper going down three times?” he asked. “No. So we shouldn’t waste too many words about that. The Premier League has to find a rule.” The Brighton boss said his team dominated statistically, conceding just one shot on target while creating several chances of their own. However, he admitted they lacked composure in the final third. “We could have been more clinical, more calm, made better decisions,” he said, while praising his players’ effort. “I loved how they played football. I think there was only one team who tried to play football today and therefore I’m proud of how they did it,” Hurzeler added. He also insisted he would never instruct his side to play in the same manner, arguing that supporters “deserve better” and that few people enjoyed the contest apart from Arsenal fans. In response, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta dismissed the criticism with a sharp, “What a surprise,” suggesting similar comments have followed his side in previous games. He defended his players strongly, saying: “I love my players. I love the way we compete.” The heated encounter saw fans jeer perceived delays, and tensions spilt over during stoppage time. Despite the controversy, Arsenal left the south coast with three crucial points — and control of the title race — even if the manner of victory divided opinion.