Brighton boss texted Mikle Arteta - Source: Getty
Brighton boss texted Mikle Arteta - Source: Getty
Brighton & Hove Albion manager Fabian Hurzeler has revealed that he texted Arsenal counterpart Mikel Arteta after his recent comments. The 33-year-old said that he admires the Spaniard and praised him as one of the best managers in the world.
Speaking to the media on Friday, Hurzeler claimed that the comments were said in the heat of the moment, and he was emotional after the loss. The Brighton boss added that he has respect for the Gunners and said:
“I said to Mikel afterwards, and during the week, that I admire his work. I didn’t want to create that noise, I just wanted to make my point about how I was feeling. Nothing to do with what they have achieved, it’s incredible. Arteta is one of the best managers in the world for me, he is a role model – but it is important to say your opinion and not hide your opinion. Even when you are a smaller club."
“That evening, we tried hard to win that game, and faced an Arsenal [team] who did different things. We have to find a way to beat them next time. It will be a different challenge. I texted him saying that ‘I have huge respect for everyone at Arsenal’. If they win the Premier League, they definitely deserve it, but it’s just things that made me emotional, and I’m a person who sticks to his principles and opinions." (via Football365)
Fabian Hurzeler was furious with their loss to the Gunners last week, claiming that only one team wanted to play football during the 90 minutes. He added that the table toppers only relied on serpieces and were time-wasting throughout the game.
Brighton boss ready to congratulate Arsenal if the win the league
Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler went on to say that he admires Arsenal for what they have done this season. He claimed that he would be the first to congratulate them if they go on to win the Premier League title and said:
“I really admire what Arsenal have achieved so far this season and how Arteta and his team work. I will be the first to congratulate then if they win the Premier League. I didn’t want to upset anyone, but on the other hand, I stick to my word that I wasn’t happy about some things that day and all of numbers give me conformation.” (via Football365)
The Gunners are seven points clear at the top of the table, but have played a game more than second-placed Manchester City.