The criticism continued. Hurzeler said he loved how his team played, and that "there was only one team that tried to play football today."
"... I will never be that kind of manager who tries to win in that way," he said. "I want to develop players. I want players to keep improving, keep playing football on the pitch. In the end, every team will manage and waste time but I think there has to be a limit.
"I'm not sure if we would ask now everyone here in the room, 'Did they really enjoy this football game?' I'm sure maybe one raises his arm because he is a big Arsenal fan. Besides that, no chance."
"Where will this go in the future? That's my question. One game we play 60 minutes natural time and then you play against Arsenal, only 50 minutes. It is 10 minutes difference - is this what supporters are paying for?"
Arteta refused to engage in response. "What a surprise," he said when the gist of Hurzeler's diatribe was put to him.
Brighton might have been unable to halt Arsenal's title charge, but they have added to the soundtrack for the weeks ahead. Alongside the gripes the Gunners face over their reliance on set pieces now stands public condemnation of their timewasting, which other opponents will be asked about and away crowds will seize upon any examples of.
It only adds to what Arteta refers to as the external noise surrounding Arsenal's attempt to win their first title since 2004. But when the dust settles, the Gunners will reflect on a night where they extended their lead at the top and piled pressure onto City.
If it is a choice between winning friends and winning the title, there is no contest.
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By ESPN UK
March 5, 2026