Arsenal will be looking to maintain the pressure on Manchester City when they face Brighton at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday. The Gunners secured a crucial 2-0 win away at Newcastle last weekend, and they will be hoping to continue their winning ways against the Seagulls. Arsenal currently sit in ninth place in the Premier League table, six points behind fourth-placed Chelsea with a game in hand.
Brighton, on the other hand, are in 17th place, just six points above the relegation zone. The Seagulls’ form has been inconsistent this season, with wins over Manchester United and Liverpool but also heavy defeats against Everton and Manchester City. They will be hoping to bounce back from their 5-1 loss to Everton in their last outing and secure a much-needed victory against Arsenal.
One of the key battles in this match will be the Gunners’ press versus Brighton’s build-up play. The visitors will look to dominate possession and create chances, but they will have to be wary of Arsenal’s press, which has been one of the best in the league this season. If Brighton can break through the press, they will have a good chance of causing problems for the Gunners’ defence.
Arsenal will be without any fresh injury concerns ahead of the match. Mikel Arteta has some big selection calls to make, with Leandro Trossard potentially coming into the Brighton frontline. Kieran Tierney could also make a rare Premier League start, while Jorginho is expected to retain his place at the base of midfield after an impressive showing at St. James’ Park.
Brighton will likely make a few changes to the side that was thrashed by Everton on Monday. Solly March and Julio Enciso could return to the fold, while Levi Colwill might be introduced to the starting XI to solve their right-back selection issues. Adam Lallana, Tariq Lamptey, and Jeremy Sarmiento are all sidelined, while Joel Veltman is a major doubt.
Overall, this should be an entertaining matchup, with both teams eager to secure a positive result. Arsenal will be confident after their win at Newcastle and will look to continue their push for a top-four finish. Brighton, on the other hand, will be looking to bounce back and secure a vital three points in their battle against relegation. In the end, I predict a narrow 2-1 win for Arsenal.
