How Arteta's response to Brighton loss may shape Arsenal's next chapter

Mikel Arteta has shown an increased appetite for risk this season but, as Arsenal look to stay at the top, failing to reinvent would be a greater gamble. Arsenal did not lose by more than a single goal in the Premier League last season Taking over a side in need of new life in 2019, he won the FA Cup in his first season by playing a defensive style of football, unafraid of using a back five. As time passed the Gunners played a free-flowing style of attacking football – best seen in 2022 – before creating a side that reduced the variance of a match, maximised control and became physically difficult to compete with.

Having finally won the Premier League title, Arteta is reinventing his side again. Perhaps freed by having lifted the trophy, we have seen the Spaniard take more gambles in personnel and tactics. But, while an increased appetite for risk means the wins can be greater – so can the losses. Arsenal finished seven points above second-placed Manchester City last season "Brighton were really good," Mikel Arteta confessed after Arsenal's 3-0 defeat before the international break. Fabian Hurzeler masterminded the dominant victory against the reigning champions – defiantly opting against a pragmatic approach. It is rare Arsenal are totally outclassed, so the loss to Brighton left