Under Mikel Arteta, Arsenal’s evolution has been underpinned by elite set-piece efficiency, and that strength once again proved decisive in their recent London derby success over Chelsea. When their structured positional play faltered in open phases, their corner routines compensated emphatically. Headers from William Saliba and Jurrien Timber, either side of an own goal forced by relentless aerial pressure, secured three crucial points.
That victory restored Arsenal’s five-point cushion over Manchester City in the title race, although City still possess a game in hand. Crucially, the Gunners have displayed significant improvement in attacking productivity away from home. Earlier in the campaign they averaged just 1.2 goals per away fixture; since the turn of the year, that figure has nearly doubled to 2.3 — a reflection of improved verticality and transitional sharpness.
They are also unbeaten in 11 away matches across all competitions, reinforcing the sense of composure and maturity that now defines this squad. With another Etihad showdown looming next month, maintaining momentum against mid-table opposition is non-negotiable.
Brighton, however, represent no routine assignment.
Fabian Hurzeler’s side have rediscovered traction in recent weeks, claiming back-to-back league wins after enduring a prolonged slump. Their 2-1 triumph over Nottingham Forest showcased both flair and resilience: Diego Gomez’s stunning opener was followed by a decisive contribution from former Arsenal striker Danny Welbeck.
Despite the uptick in form, Brighton remain 11th in the table and have struggled for sustained consistency. Defensive vulnerability persists — just one clean sheet in their last 10 matches in all competitions illustrates the issue. Yet their home record commands respect: only two Premier League defeats at the Amex all season, even if victories there have recently been sparse.
Arsenal, though, have travelled well to Brighton in recent years, unbeaten in five visits since the 2020–21 campaign.
Team News
Arsenal’s win over Chelsea came at a physical cost. Declan Rice was withdrawn with visible discomfort, though Arteta has expressed optimism regarding his availability. Martin Ødegaard also faces a late fitness assessment after missing out last weekend with a precautionary knee concern.Confirmed absentees include Mikel Merino and Ben White. Should Rice or Ødegaard fail to recover, academy graduate Myles Lewis-Skelly could feature centrally, potentially alongside Martin Zubimendi in a double-pivot configuration.
Brighton may be forced into defensive reshuffling. Mats Wieffer was unable to complete the full 90 minutes against Forest and could make way for Joel Veltman at right-back. Yasin Ayari edges closer to a return from a shoulder issue, but long-term knee injuries rule out Adam Webster and Stefanos Tzimas for the remainder of the season.
Veteran James Milner made his 655th Premier League appearance at the weekend, extending his all-time record. However, with a quick turnaround, the dynamic Carlos Baleba may offer fresher legs in midfield.
Possible Starting Lineups
Brighton & Hove Albion:Verbruggen; Veltman, Dunk, Van Hecke, Kadioglu; Gross, Baleba; Gomez, Hinshelwood, Mitoma; Welbeck
Arsenal:
Raya; Mosquera, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori; Havertz, Zubimendi, Lewis-Skelly; Saka, Gyokeres, Martinelli
Expect territorial dominance from the visitors but intermittent moments of Brighton penetration, particularly in wide transition zones.
Expert Prediction
Brighton 0-1 Arsenal
