Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler has identified Arsenal’s set-piece prowess as a major threat. He believes a collective defensive effort is the key to neutralizing the Gunners’ effectiveness from dead-ball situations. The two teams are set to face off in the Carabao Cup.
Arsenal have become renowned for their efficiency from set-pieces this season, leading the Premier League in goals scored from these situations. Mikel Arteta’s team has found the net eleven times, showcasing their tactical discipline and execution.
Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler assesses Arsenal’s set-piece threat
Fabian Hurzeler acknowledged Arsenal’s strength comes from coordinated execution. He highlighted that it is not just about individual players like Gabriel Magalhaes. Rather, it is the collective effort and well-designed patterns that make Arsenal so dangerous.
“You can’t defend one against one,” Hurzeler said. “It is also not just Gabriel, they do it very well together and have really good patterns.”
The Brighton manager praised Arsenal’s organization. He also noted their discipline in both attacking and defending set-pieces. Hurzeler emphasized that this unity and precision are crucial to their success.
Arsenal’s key players in dead-ball situations
Arsenal’s dominance in set-pieces is driven by key players. Declan Rice’s dangerous deliveries from corners and free kicks are a major factor. Meanwhile, Gabriel Magalhaes poses a significant aerial threat in both penalty boxes.
Hurzeler admitted that Brighton are working to develop their own set-piece identity. He stressed that perfecting this aspect of the game takes time and consistent effort. “We are quite good at defending and also try to build a set-piece culture, but that doesn’t come overnight, it needs time,” he noted.
Injuries and tactical preparations ahead of Carabao Cup clash
Brighton will be without James Milner due to a muscle injury. Kaoru Mitoma, Joel Veltman, and Brajan Gruda are nearing their returns. Arsenal are expected to rotate their squad, considering their busy schedule.
Wednesday’s Carabao Cup match between Brighton and Arsenal promises a compelling tactical battle. Hurzeler’s Brighton aims to disrupt Arsenal’s set-piece dominance. They also hope to secure a significant victory at the Emirates Stadium.
Chelsea have netted nine goals from set-pieces. Arsenal lead the way with 11 goals in the 2025/26 season.
The upcoming Carabao Cup clash will test Brighton’s defensive strategies against Arsenal’s well-honed set-piece routines. It will be intriguing to see if Hurzeler’s tactical adjustments can effectively neutralize Arsenal’s threat in dead-ball situations.
