Fabian Hürzeler’s high-pressing Seagulls look to exploit defensive fitness concerns as Mikel Arteta’s reinforced title-winners bring their star-studded midfield to the south coast for a tactical showdown.
Brighton and Hove Albion don't have any time to rest after an impressive win against Manchester United during the week.
What is the team news like?
The additions of Bruno Guimarães, Christos Tzolis, Ezri Konsa, and the permanent move of Piero Hincapié kickstarted a very interesting season for the Gunners.
We all know Mikel Arteta by now; his team is tough to play against and incredibly strong across almost every area of the pitch. Players like Declan Rice, Bruno G, and Martin Odegaard will be tough to press, and it could be an intriguing battle for Fabian Hürzeler to see how he counters their evergreen midfield.
Albion are mostly as they were in regard to team news, as confirmed by Fabian Hürzeler this morning.
Arsenal have mixed team news, as official reports suggest that former Seagull Ben White is back available, as well as Jurrien Timber, Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapie, who are all "progressing well". However, there is an understanding that White could still be out.
The Arsenal View...
We heard from our Roundtable partner, Kieran, who gave his Arsenal verdict:
"Arteta will likely return to something close to his strongest side after making nine changes for the Carabao Cup win at Ipswich.
Arsenal should line up in their usual 4-3-3, with David Raya, Declan Rice, Martin Odegaard and Bukayo Saka all expected to come back into the XI. There is still some uncertainty in defence because of recent fitness issues."
Potentially something to pick up on here, as Arsenal are known for having a formidable back line. News that they could be struggling for fitness at the back could only be a good thing for Hürzeler's high-pressing philosophy. If they're caught cold, it could lead to mistakes similar to those of Manchester United and Coventry previously.
"Arteta said White, Mosquera, Timber and Hincapie were ‘all good', but Tuchel said Ben White was unavailable for selection for the England squad, suggesting that perhaps he isn’t quite fit enough, further suggesting that Timber will start, if he is actually fit.
Bruno Guimaraes has impressed in midfield recently as he looks to justify a starting place alongside Rice. With Lewis-Skelly playing all 90 minutes at left-back against Ipswich midweek, I wouldn’t be surprised if Guimaraes got the start."
The midfield area could be the make-or-break for this game. Pascal Groß, Yasin Ayari, Chema Andrés, and potentially even Georginio Rutter could have a tough game on their hands.
The emergence of the £80 million Bruno G could be a tough ask when partnered with Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard.
"Tzolis will likely resume his place on the left wing, whilst Havertz will start as the lone striker again.
They’ve won all four Premier League matches and seven games in a row in all competitions, while also dealing with injuries throughout the back line and a demanding run of four consecutive away fixtures (including Brighton).
Tzolis could provide a problem for Albion's box defending. His unpredictable balls into the box are dangerous and often lead to good chances for Havertz to be on the end of. While he isn't the traditional 'take-on' winger, he has a similar crossing ability to Maxim De Cuyper.
Fan's Score Predictions
For both sides, this will be a tough game. For Albion, this is probably their toughest task of the season so far. However, considering it falls shortly before the international break, there is confidence that Hürzeler may go for it.
While tight to decide, my heart is telling me there's a chance today, based on current form.


