Pascal Gross Stars as Brighton Mark 125th Anniversary by Beating Arsenal 3-0
Brighton celebrated their 125th anniversary with a commanding 3-0 win over Premier League champions Arsenal at the Amex Stadium, with Pascal Gross again central to Fabian Hurzeler’s side.
Gross delivers in landmark Arsenal win
The 35-year-old combined a goal threat with his usual quality from dead-ball situations as Brighton produced a disciplined, polished display against Mikel Arteta’s team.
- Brighton beat Arsenal 3-0 in front of a jubilant home crowd.
- Gross supplied the corner for Chema Andres to head in Brighton’s third goal in the 57th minute.
- The goal ended Arsenal’s hopes of mounting a late recovery.
- Gross has scored in each of his past three matches.
- He has four goals across his last five appearances.
Hurzeler’s team paired defensive control with sharp individual moments to dismantle the reigning champions on a significant day for the club.
Hurzeler hails veteran midfielder’s influence
Hurzeler said Gross is improving with age, repeating his recent comparison of the German midfielder to a wine that develops over time.
The Brighton head coach stressed that Gross’s value reaches beyond goals, assists and his understanding of the game. He pointed to the midfielder’s standards during training and his impact on younger players in the squad.
- Hurzeler believes Gross improves those around him.
- The manager praised his tactical reading of matches.
- He also highlighted the less visible work Gross brings every day at the training ground.
- Gross has become a key senior figure in Hurzeler’s high-flying Brighton group.
A unifying figure in a varied squad
Hurzeler also singled out Gross’s ability to connect players from different countries and age groups. Brighton’s manager believes the German’s awareness of personalities and team dynamics helps bring together the club’s diverse dressing room.
The 33-year-old said that contribution can be overlooked, but regards it as an important part of Gross’s role at the Amex.
What happens next for Gross
Despite his age, Gross remains fiercely competitive away from matchdays as well. Hurzeler joked that the midfielder would likely be searching for a race to enter, or perhaps a game of padel, rather than standing still during time off.
The Brighton boss said he will urge Gross to take a few days’ rest, while insisting that the veteran’s relentless drive and winning mentality are major assets for the team.
