Brighton and Hove Albion manager Fabian Hurzeler has questioned the length of time Arsenal take to execute set-pieces. Speaking before the Premier League fixture between the two clubs, Hurzeler claimed Arsenal sometimes spend one minute preparing to take a corner. The head coach suggested that match officials should implement stricter rules to prevent such delays, according to Sky Sports.
Hurzeler stated that long pauses before restarts disrupt the flow of matches and negatively impact the spectacle for supporters. He noted that while tactics are part of the game, the current regulations allow teams to gain an unfair advantage through stalling. Arsenal travel to the Amex Stadium following a period of scrutiny regarding their dead-ball routines, per The Guardian.
Brighton currently sit ninth in the Premier League table, while Arsenal occupy second place. The visitors have faced previous criticism for their use of technical delays during matches this season. Hurzeler's comments follow recent league efforts to increase effective playing time, according to ESPN.