Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler has revealed he texted Mikel Arteta to clear the air after his public criticism of Arsenal's tactics following a 1-0 defeat. Hurzeler had accused the Premier League leaders of timewasting and disrupting the game's rhythm through goal kicks, set pieces, and throw-ins.
Speaking ahead of Brighton's FA Cup tie at Sunderland, Hurzeler said: “I really admire what Arsenal have achieved so far this season and how Arteta and his team work. I didn't want to upset anyone, but on the other hand, I stick to my word that I wasn't happy about some things that day.”
Hurzeler stressed that his remarks were not a personal attack on Arteta, whom he called “one of the best managers in the world”. He added: “I said to Mikel afterwards, and during the week, that I admire his work. I didn't want to create that noise, I just wanted to make my point.”
The German confirmed Arteta replied to his message. “We had a good exchange, he shared his opinion and I shared mine,” Hurzeler said. Arteta later declined to discuss the conversation publicly, but praised Hurzeler as a “fantastic coach”.
