Former Arsenal defender Martin Keown has ignited a firestorm with his scathing critique of Brighton manager Roberto De Zerbi and his tactics, particularly following the Seagulls’ demoralizing 4-0 defeat to Manchester City. Keown’s criticism extends beyond the result itself, raising questions about De Zerbi’s overall focus and decision-making.
Arsenal harbored hopes of a helping hand from Brighton as Manchester City rolled into the Amex Stadium. However, De Zerbi’s men crumbled under City’s pressure, conceding a staggering three goals within the opening 34 minutes. The final whistle confirmed a crushing defeat, tightening the Premier League title race significantly and leaving Arsenal just a point ahead of City with a game in hand.
Keown’s criticism wasn’t solely directed at the outcome, but rather De Zerbi’s tactical approach. He questioned the wisdom of persisting with a possession-based strategy, particularly against a superior opponent like Manchester City. “You see Brighton last night, naively trying to pass out from the back,” he remarked on talkSPORT. Keown’s pointed commentary suggested a disconnect between De Zerbi’s philosophy and Brighton’s current capabilities. Was this a genuine tactical misstep, or an attempt to impose a long-term vision regardless of immediate results?
Beyond the Result: De Zerbi Under the Microscope
Keown’s critique transcended the specific game, hinting at a potential decline in De Zerbi’s overall performance this season. “I’ve been concerned about Brighton all season,” he stated. He then made a more personal observation, alluding to De Zerbi’s well-publicized dental work coinciding with the time he was linked with the vacant Liverpool manager position. “He went off to get his teeth changed didn’t he? And everyone thought he was going to be the manager of Liverpool, De Zerbi.” Keown’s implication was clear: perhaps De Zerbi’s focus had shifted, potentially impacting his dedication to his current role at Brighton.
Performance Slump and Uncertain Future
Statistics lend credence to Keown’s concerns. Over the last nine games, Brighton languishes in 16th place on the Premier League form table, having managed a paltry nine points. This slump is further highlighted by their struggles against top competition. Both Arsenal and Manchester City comfortably won their respective matches against Brighton, while even Liverpool could only manage a draw on the south coast.
With Liverpool seemingly set to appoint Arne Slot as their new manager, De Zerbi’s future prospects remain shrouded in uncertainty. Keown’s comments have undoubtedly added pressure to De Zerbi’s already challenging situation at Brighton. Can he recapture his earlier magic, silence his critics, and steer Brighton clear of the relegation scrap? Only time will tell if De Zerbi can navigate this turbulent period and lead Brighton back to calmer waters.
As in Inside Futbol
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