Fabian Hurzeler accuses Arsenal of “making their own rules” after fractious defeat
· Yahoo Sports
Brighton & Hove Albion head coach Fabian Hürzeler launched a fierce critique of Arsenal after their 1–0 defeat at the Amex Stadium, accusing the Premier League leaders of “not trying to play football” and calling for stricter regulations to curb time-wasting.
The visitors secured victory through an early strike from Bukayo Saka, a goal that ultimately separated the sides despite Brighton enjoying the majority of possession and territory. Arsenal registered only one shot on target, yet held firm to extend their advantage at the summit of the Premier League.
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Hürzeler, however, was more concerned with the nature of the contest than the result itself.
“I think statistics never lie,” he said, speaking to the media after the game. “We conceded one shot on the goal and created a lot of chances. But I think there was only one team who tried to play football today and therefore I’m proud of how my boys played.”
The German coach was particularly frustrated by repeated stoppages in play, pointing to several occasions when Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya went to ground during the second half.
“Did you see in the Premier League a goalkeeper going down three times? No? Then we shouldn’t waste too many words about it,” Hürzeler said. “The league has to find rules and limits. At the moment I have the feeling Arsenal are making their own rules.”
Despite his criticism, Hürzeler insisted the responsibility ultimately lay with the competition’s authorities rather than individual referees. “It’s difficult for the referee,” he added. “That’s why the Premier League must create clearer rules to help them.”
Mikel Arteta responded coolly when informed of the comments, dismissing them with a brief: “What a surprise.”
For Arsenal supporters celebrating another narrow victory in their title pursuit, aesthetics were secondary to the result. For Hürzeler, however, the manner of the contest raised broader concerns about how the modern game is being played.
GFN | Finn Entwistle