3 positives & negatives from disappointing 3-0 loss to Brighton

Arsenal were outclassed and outplayed by Brighton & Hove Albion as the Seagulls secured a comfortable 3-0 victory, effectively ending the Gunners’ title dream. 

The first half was fairly even, and while Brighton enjoyed the lion’s share of possession, it was the Gunners who created the more dangerous goal-scoring opportunities. However, the home side failed to convert any of those chances, and the visitors only improved after the break.

Julio Enciso put Roberto De Zerbi’s men ahead in the 51st minute before two late goals from Deniz Undav and Pervis Estupinan sealed the three points.

The result effectively ends Arsenal’s title hopes, with Manchester City now four points ahead with a game in hand.

3 positives & negatives from disappointing 3-0 loss to Brighton

Positive #1: The fans

The team may have been lacklustre and lacking intensity, but the same cannot be said about the atmosphere inside the Emirates. From the first minute to the moment Undav confirmed the result, the fans were excellent and were incredible in their efforts in encouraging the players. As it has been throughout this season, the stadium was rocking and the home crowd deserve huge credit for that.

Ultimately, many of those fans eventually left the match early, dismayed at what they had witnessed, but they undeniably did their part before that happened.

Negative #1: Gabriel Martinelli’s injury

While it is unlikely that had Martinelli stayed on the pitch we would have been victorious, his early exit was certainly a huge blow. Leandro Trossard has been excellent since his January arrival, but the Brazilian is the first-choice option at left wing for a reason.

Arteta spoke on the injury after the game, admitting he was unsure how serious the injury was.

"“We don’t know, he’s in a boot at the moment. It was very uncomfortable for him to walk, he couldn’t carry on playing – so obviously we need to scan him and see the extent of that injury.”"

With only two fixtures left in this campaign, the impact will of course be lessened. However, the real concern is whether the injury Martinelli sustained is serious enough to potentially rule him out at the start of next season.

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