Arsenal’s Premier League title push hit a snag as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Brighton at the Amex Stadium. Despite an early goal from Ethan Nwaneri, the Gunners failed to capitalize on their advantage, with Joao Pedro’s contentious second-half penalty denying them all three points.
The draw means Arsenal missed the chance to close the gap on league leaders Liverpool, who face Manchester United on Sunday. Manager Mikel Arteta was visibly frustrated, both with the penalty decision and his team’s lackluster performance in attack. Arsenal managed just nine shots throughout the game, a season low.
“You cannot rely on just one player,” Arteta said post-match. “In the second half, we lacked certain qualities, especially in fluidity. That’s something we must improve, and it’s on us.”
The Gunners’ attacking options took another blow as Nwaneri, who scored Arsenal’s opener, was forced off at halftime with a muscular injury. With Bukayo Saka sidelined for two months and Martin Odegaard only fit enough for the bench, Arsenal’s depth was tested. Kai Havertz was absent due to illness, further compounding their challenges.
Ahead of Tuesday’s Carabao Cup semifinal first leg against Newcastle, Arteta hinted at potential reinforcements in January but urged patience. “We cannot make decisions based on one performance or one day,” he remarked, acknowledging the circumstances surrounding the current squad shortages.
Brighton capitalized on their limited chances, with Joao Pedro converting from the spot after a controversial decision. Arsenal’s goalkeeper, David Raya, could do little to stop the well-taken penalty.
For Arsenal, the draw was a bitter reminder of their reliance on a fully fit squad. While loan signing Raheem Sterling could bolster their options against Newcastle, the clamors for January signings are growing louder after another disappointing outing.
