Arsenal vs Brighton: Premier League Leaders Face Seagulls Test at Emirates
Premier League leaders Arsenal are set to host Brighton & Hove Albion today in what promises to be a compelling fixture at the Emirates Stadium. The Gunners, flying high at the top of the table, aim to continue their formidable run of form. In contrast, Brighton arrives in North London looking to reverse a recent slump that has seen them slip down the standings. With both teams possessing distinct tactical identities, this 3 p.m. GMT clash is more than just a battle for three points.
Form Guide: A Tale of Two Trajectories
The current form of both clubs could not be more different. Arsenal has been in scintillating form, winning every match since an early December defeat to Aston Villa. This impressive run includes a hard-fought penalty shootout victory over Crystal Palace in the Carabao Cup. Consequently, their command at the top of the Premier League table is well-earned. Their strength at home is particularly noteworthy, having kept nine clean sheets in their last 14 matches at the Emirates.
Brighton, however, is navigating a challenging period. The Seagulls are currently ninth and are on a four-game winless streak in the Premier League. Their recent goalless draw against Sunderland highlighted their struggles in front of goal. Therefore, a trip to face the league leaders presents a significant challenge as they seek to regain momentum.
Head-to-Head: Gunners’ Recent Dominance
While this fixture has become increasingly competitive since Brighton’s promotion, Arsenal has controlled the recent narrative. The Gunners are unbeaten in their last five meetings with the Seagulls, recording three wins and two draws. Their most recent clash in the Carabao Cup in October 2025 ended in a convincing 2-0 victory for Arsenal.
Historically, the matchup is closer. Across 33 total meetings, Arsenal has won 18 times, Brighton has won 8, and 7 matches have ended in a draw. This history shows that while Arsenal holds the advantage, Brighton has certainly proven to be a challenging opponent in the Premier League era.
Team News and Predicted Lineups
Injuries and absences will play a crucial role in today’s match for both managers.
Arsenal Absences and Returns
Mikel Arteta faces some key defensive decisions. The Gunners will be without:
- Gabriel and Cristhian Mosquera.
- Ben White’s fitness issues mean Jurriën Timber is expected to start at right-back.
- Kai Havertz has returned to training but is considered unlikely to feature.
Brighton Absences and Returns
The Seagulls receive a timely boost with several key players returning. However, they are also missing important figures.
- Returning: Danny Welbeck (injury), Jan Paul van Hecke (illness), Lewis Dunk, and Diego Gómez (suspensions) are all available.
- Unavailable: Carlos Baleba is away at the Africa Cup of Nations, while Adam Webster, Solly March, and Stefanos Tzimas remain out with injuries.
The Tactical Tussle: Arteta vs. De Zerbi
This match features a fascinating clash of managerial philosophies. Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal is built on control, positional superiority, and intense, unified pressing. They often build from the back in a 4-3-3, which morphs into an attacking 3-2-5 shape to overwhelm opponents. Their defensive solidity, a hallmark of Arteta’s system, will be key. 
Conversely, Roberto De Zerbi’s Brighton is famous for its brave, possession-based style. Using a 4-2-3-1, they deliberately “bait” the opposition’s press, aiming to draw players out of position before launching rapid, vertical attacks. This high-risk, high-reward strategy can disorganize even the best teams, but it also leaves them vulnerable if they lose possession in the build-up phase.
What to Expect
Considering Arsenal’s relentless form, defensive prowess at home, and Brighton’s recent scoring difficulties, pundits widely predict a victory for the home side. The Gunners have not conceded more than one goal in their last 14 home games, a statistic that spells trouble for a Brighton side struggling for goals. While the Seagulls’ returning players will offer a boost, overcoming the league leaders at the Emirates appears to be a monumental task.
