Fabian Hürzeler’s high-intensity press dismantled the champions at the Amex as standout new signings and tactical fluidity exposed rare vulnerabilities in Mikel Arteta’s previously impenetrable defense.
Brighton and Hove Albion completed one of the most incredible games of football in the entire Fabian Hürzeler era. A 3-0 victory over the champions, in exquisite fashion.
The game plan worked to perfection, and the Gunners simply could not deal with Albion's high pressing. What did we actually learn from that one this afternoon?
1) High-intensity football is very attractive
The famous old lines are finally transferring onto the pitch. The Seagulls' high press football has been something to behold so far this season.
When it worked against Coventry, it felt good, but perhaps still had its reservations. When we beat Manchester United, the feeling started to grow, but there was still a cautious optimism... but beating Arsenal in that fashion?
The high press is incredible to watch. When the whole team are working together as a collective, including the likes of Pascal Groß, Yasin Ayari, Diego Gomez, the defence and forwards... it is a joy to behold. The fluidity of each player to occupy multiple positions from back to front kept the style's efficiency high.
Dare I say, one of the most entertaining Albion performances at the Amex?
2) Chema Andrés, Luka Vuskovic, and Pascal Struijk are top signings
Each of the new signings stepped up today, and that is all that anyone can ask for.
Struijk and Vuskovic were exceptionally good together. A partnership of aerial dominance and composure at the back, as well as well-timed jumps forward. The duo genuinely looked like they had played 150+ games alongside each other, never mind this being a first time!
Andrés deserves a special mention too. The Spaniard was very strong on the ball, and nodded home Albion's third. While people may question if he was ready when he first came in regarding his physicality, Andrés answered most of those concerns today. A stellar performance with his passing and pressing ability!
3) Arsenal are not as invincible as we thought
Perhaps the one that will take the headlines, but Arsenal simply could not live with Albion's press. Considering the Gunners have been praised for their strong defence for a long time now, it seems as though Hürzeler found a way to outsmart them.
While going toe to toe physically may seem bold, it is now clear that Arsenal cannot deal with being put under pressure while players interchange positions.
This may act as a minor blip for Mikel Arteta to learn from, but the fact that Albion have found another way to diversify the Premier League after the success under both Graham Potter and Roberto De Zerbi is very exciting.
