Brighton manager says Arsenal tactics “not football” after loss
Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler has urged the Premier League to consider stricter measures against time-wasting after accusing Arsenal of repeatedly slowing Wednesday’s match at the Amex Stadium.
The German coach criticised the tactics following Brighton’s 1-0 defeat, suggesting the league should introduce clearer limits on delaying play.
“I will never be the manager who tries to play that way. The Premier League needs a rule... You need rules... You need a limit,” Hurzeler told reporters, according to The Mirror.
He appeared particularly frustrated by Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya receiving treatment during the match.
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“There was only one team that tried to win the game. I ask you one question: did you see a goalkeeper go down three times to get treatment? I do not want to waste my time talking about it,” Hurzeler said.
The Brighton manager also questioned whether the contest had been entertaining for neutral viewers.
“If you ask everyone here in this room did they enjoy this game, maybe one raises their hand, because he's a big Arsenal fan. If they win the Premier League, they won't care how... and you can see they do everything to win the Premier League.”
Hurzeler suggested possible changes the league could adopt, including stricter enforcement of existing rules.
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“Add the game time, more yellow cards for time wasting,” he said.
Arsenal extend title advantage
Despite the controversy, Arsenal secured an important victory in the Premier League title race. Bukayo Saka scored early in the match to give Mikel Arteta’s side all three points.
The win moved Arsenal seven points clear at the top of the table.
Manchester City missed the chance to close the gap after drawing 2-2 with Nottingham Forest. Pep Guardiola’s team led twice at the Etihad Stadium but conceded in the 76th minute when Elliot Anderson scored the equaliser.
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With City holding a game in hand, the title race remains open, although Arsenal have strengthened their position as the season enters its final stretch.
Ongoing debate over tactics
Criticism of Arsenal’s approach has surfaced at various points this season, particularly regarding their physical presence at set-pieces.
According to earlier reporting, FIFA and the International Football Association Board (IFAB) currently have no plans to introduce new rules addressing grappling during corner kicks.
The debate around time-wasting has also become more prominent in recent seasons. Premier League officials previously instructed referees to add longer stoppage time to compensate for delays, although managers continue to argue that enforcement is inconsistent.
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Arteta responds
Asked about Hurzeler’s remarks after the match, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta offered a brief response.
“What a surprise,” the Spaniard said.
When pressed further, he defended his team’s approach.
“Just go back to the previous games and you will find a lot of comments like this always. I love my players – that’s the highlight. I love my players, we love our players, and I love the way we compete.”
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Arsenal will next face Mansfield Town in the FA Cup before travelling to Germany to meet Bayer Leverkusen in the first leg of their Champions League round-of-16 tie. Their next Premier League match comes on March 14 against Everton at the Emirates Stadium.
Sources: The Mirror, Arsenal Insider
