Two games into the new season, Arsenal appear to be picking up right where they left off last season—looking sharp and impressive, even elite. While some early-season rust is evident, as with most teams at this stage, the Gunners seem more complete than most of their Premier League rivals, playing with the confidence of a team that knows its strengths and capabilities.
Their 2-0 victory away at Aston Villa last weekend was particularly convincing. In the first significant test in a tough run of early fixtures, Arsenal passed with flying colors, gaining a measure of revenge against the Villains. However, the challenges keep coming as Arsenal prepare to face third-placed Brighton & Hove Albion at the Emirates in a top-four clash on matchday 3.
Brighton presents a unique challenge to Arsenal’s resilience and determination. They’ve started the season strongly and will be a tough opponent, especially with Arsenal’s upcoming back-to-back away games against Tottenham and Manchester City looming. A strong performance against Brighton could bolster Arsenal’s confidence heading into those tough fixtures, while a poor showing might shake their momentum.
Arsenal Vs. Brighton: Head To Head Statistics
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Brighton have been defeated in three of their last four Premier League encounters with Arsenal. Meanwhile, Arsenal have lost three of their seven Premier League home matches against Brighton. In the 2023-24 season, Brighton failed to secure a win in any of their seven Premier League away games against London teams.
After winning their first two matches of the season, Arsenal aim to secure three consecutive victories at the start of a league campaign for the second time under Mikel Arteta. Conversely, Brighton have won their opening two Premier League matches in three of the last four seasons.
Brighton’s defensive style of play focuses on maintaining a solid, organized defense to minimize the opponent’s scoring opportunities. They prioritize structure, discipline, and tactical awareness, often deploying a deeper defensive line and crowding their half to limit space. Brighton relies heavily on counterattacks and set-pieces for scoring, with quick transitions from defense to offense. The emphasis is on patience, teamwork, and reducing risks, often resulting in lower-scoring games where they aim to capitalize on the opponent’s mistakes.
Arsenal Vs. Brighton: Team News And Possible Starting Lineup
Mikel Merino finally made his much-anticipated move from Real Sociedad to Arsenal this week, but his debut will be delayed. Manager Mikel Arteta revealed on Friday that the Spanish midfielder suffered a shoulder injury in a freak accident, which is expected to keep him out for several weeks.
Gabriel Jesus was absent from the victory over Aston Villa due to a groin injury, leaving Kai Havertz to lead the attack again. Leandro Trossard, who came off the bench to score at Villa Park, could join Havertz in the front three.
Arsenal’s predicted lineup (4-3-3, right to left): Raya (GK) — White, Gabriel, Saliba, Timber — Odegaard, Partey, Rice — Saka, Havertz, Trossard
Injured: Jesus (doubtful), Tierney, Tomiyasu, Merino
Suspended: None
Hurzeler made several changes for the 4-0 Carabao Cup win over Crawley Town midweek but lost new signing Matt O’Reilly to injury. Pervis Estupiñán returned as a substitute in that match, and Evan Ferguson was also included in the squad as they worked on their fitness. New signing Ferdi Kadıoğlu could also feature.
Brighton’s predicted lineup (4-2-3-1, right to left): Steele (GK) — Veltman, Van Hecke, Dunk, Hinshelwood — Milner, Gilmour — Minteh, Pedro, Mitoma — Welbeck
Injured: O’Reilly, Verbruggen, March
Suspended: None
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