Michael Owen Defends Arsenal and Hits Back at Fabian Hürzeler After Criticism

Michael Owen fires back at Brighton boss Fabian Hürzeler criticism, defending Mikel Arteta and Arsenal hard fought 1-0 win over the Seagulls.

Michael Owen has responded sharply to Brighton & Hove Albion manager Fabian Hürzeler after the Seagulls’ 1-0 loss to Arsenal, defending Mikel Arteta and dismissing Hürzeler’s criticism of the Gunners’ style as out of touch with a title-chasing mentality.

The victory at the Amex Stadium extended Arsenal’s Premier League lead to seven points after Manchester City’s 2-2 draw at Nottingham Forest, despite the Gunners producing a pragmatic display rather than an attacking spectacle.

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Hürzeler, who had already raised concerns about time-wasting and set-piece delays before the match, doubled down after the game, describing Arsenal’s approach as “not football.”

“I will never be that kind of manager who tries to win in that way,” he said. “Every team has the freedom to play in its own way… but there must be rules and limits. How far will Arsenal go in the future? What will the future of football look like with this style?”

The German coach’s comments sparked widespread debate, focusing on goalkeeper David Raya and the Gunners’ time management tactics.

Owen Backs Arteta and Arsenal’s Pragmatism

Speaking on Sky Sports, Owen dismissed Hürzeler’s complaints, highlighting the difference between chasing titles and mid-table management.

“He’s not going for the title! He might change his mind if he is going for the title. Then any old win will do,” Owen said.

Owen praised Arsenal’s defensive solidity, organisation, and resilience. “Sometimes you’ve got to win playing ugly. Arsenal have done that this season and fair play to them. They find a way of winning. That starts with a very strong defence, a very good goalkeeper and a very organised midfield,” he added.

Former Arsenal midfielder Ray Parlour agreed with Owen, saying, “He is not going for the title!”

Arteta Focuses on Players’ Resilience

For his part, Arteta downplayed the criticism, instead lauding his squad’s commitment after a demanding fixture schedule.

“It’s a huge win. We knew how tough it was going to be,” the Arsenal manager said. “We’re coming back from a very difficult game with a lot of intensity… the level of energy and desire that they put in, it’s phenomenal.”

The victory reinforces Arsenal’s position at the top of the table, showing that results — even in less-than-perfect performances — are crucial in the title race.

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