Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler launched a furious attack on Arsenal, claiming only one team 'tried to play football' in their 1-0 Premier League defeat. The home side lost to Bukayo Saka's early goal, with Hurzeler complaining Arsenal 'make their own rules' through excessive time-wasting. Saka's strike was Arsenal's only shot on target for 87 minutes, highlighting Brighton's struggle to generate chances. At the Amex Stadium, fans booed officials and the away team over time-wasting tactics, prompting Hurzeler to demand Premier League intervention.

He stated he would 'never be a manager who plays like that' and questioned if supporters 'enjoyed' the stop-start encounter. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta dismissed the criticism as unsurprising, emphasizing his focus on player welfare and competition. Hurzeler's comments dominated post-match fallout, framing the game as an 'ugly encounter' where Arsenal disrupted Brighton's rhythm. The result leaves Brighton 10th, while Arsenal extend their lead at the top.