Mikel Arteta's Arsenal are undergoing another tactical evolution, marked by an increased appetite for risk this season. Despite winning every game prior to their recent 3-0 defeat against Brighton, the loss has highlighted potential challenges with their new approach.
The current tactical setup sees Arsenal using a 3-1-6 shape in possession. This involves Declan Rice dropping deep to form a back three with Ezri Konsa and Gabriel Magalhaes, while Myles Lewis-Skelly operates as the single pivot, linking the team's defence and attack. Lewis-Skelly, 20, has been a key player in this role, with England manager Thomas Tuchel reportedly emulating his use during the international break.
Brighton's dominant victory was masterminded by Fabian Hurzeler, whose side played with high intensity and an effective man-to-man press. This pressure forced Arsenal into uncharacteristic decisions and prevented them from finding unmarked players, creating an unfamiliar and unpredictable game for Arteta's side. Arteta acknowledged the team's struggles, stating, "We need to get out much quicker than that, and that's one of the biggest lessons we have to take from the game today."
Arteta's response to the Brighton defeat is expected to unfold when Arsenal host Leeds on Saturday at 12:30 BST. His track record suggests he will work to find solutions to minimise the effectiveness of such pressing tactics, as he did against Manchester City last season after a Carabao Cup final loss.