Mikel Arteta hit back at criticism from Fabian Hurzeler after Arsenal edged Brighton & Hove Albion 1–0 at the Amex Stadium on Wednesday to move closer to the Premier League title.
Bukayo Saka scored the decisive goal early in the first half, his deflected strike securing Arsenal’s third consecutive league victory.
The result leaves the Gunners seven points clear of second-placed Manchester City, who were held to a surprising 2–2 draw by Nottingham Forest.
Arteta’s side now have firm control of the title race as they pursue their first English league crown since 2004, following three successive runner-up finishes.
However, even if Arsenal go on to lift the trophy, comparisons with Arsène Wenger’s celebrated 2003–04 “Invincibles” side remain unlikely.
Unlike that free-flowing team, Arteta’s Arsenal have been criticised for a more pragmatic style, built on defensive discipline and efficiency from set-pieces.
The approach drew fresh criticism from Hurzeler, who accused Arsenal of time-wasting and gamesmanship during Wednesday’s match.
The Brighton manager pointed to repeated delays in restarting play from free-kicks and questioned the frequency with which Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya went down for treatment.
“I think there was only one team that tried to play football today,” Hurzeler said after the match.
“Did you see in a Premier League game a goalkeeper going down that many times? They make their own rules. At the moment, I have the feeling they are doing their own rules.
“I will never be the kind of manager who tries to win in that way.”
Hurzeler also questioned whether such tactics provided the entertainment supporters expect from the league.
Arteta, however, dismissed the criticism and praised his players for securing another crucial win.
“What a surprise,” the Arsenal manager said when asked about Hurzeler’s comments.
“If you go back through previous games, you will find a lot of comments like this.
“I love my players and the way we compete. When you’re in the position we are in, obviously the opposition want to take that away from you. That’s normal, that is sport.”
While Arsenal may not be winning many style points, the results continue to fuel an extraordinary season.
In addition to leading the Premier League, Arteta’s side face Bayer Leverkusen in the UEFA Champions League last 16, will meet Manchester City in the EFL Cup Final, and travel to Mansfield Town in the FA Cup fifth round.
Asked whether he cared about the criticism from rival managers, Arteta offered a brief response: “No comment.”
AFP
