Gabriel dismisses Hurzeler criticism as Arsenal go seven points clear
Arsenal defender Gabriel says the squad "do not care" about criticism from Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler following the Gunners’ resolute 1-0 victory at the Amex Stadium.
Mikel Arteta’s side extended their advantage over Manchester City to seven points at the Premier League summit on Wednesday night.
Hurzeler claimed only one team "tried to play football" during the encounter, taking aim at the visitors’ game management and defensive tactics.
However, the Brazilian centre-back insists the result is the only statistic that matters in the title race.
Refuting claims of ‘dark arts’
"We don’t really care about what he says," Gabriel told ESPN Brasil in response to the Brighton boss.
The Seagulls’ manager was animated throughout the match, frequently engaging with the fourth official regarding the time taken for restarts.
"That is for the referee to decide on the pitch," Gabriel added.
"If he wants to give a yellow card or not, he decides the time we take. We just have to do things the way we are doing and keep going."
Prioritising points over perfection
Arsenal have faced scrutiny regarding their style of play recently, particularly concerning an apparent reliance on set-pieces and defensive rigidity.
Despite Bukayo Saka’s deflected strike securing the win, the north London club recorded an expected goals (xG) figure of just 0.01 in the first half.
Hurzeler had stated he would "never be that kind of manager who tries to win in that way" despite losing the contest.
Yet Gabriel, who was arguably the standout performer for the league leaders, believes defensive solidity is paramount.
"I think not every game we will be perfect," the 26-year-old said.
"The way we defend is very important. The most important thing is the three points."
"Tomorrow we will see what we can do better. But today the three points were very important."
Focusing on the title charge
The victory secured a third consecutive win for the Gunners as they look to hold off the chasing pack.
While acknowledging performances can improve, the defender stressed the need to ignore outside noise and focus on momentum.
"We have to concentrate on ourselves and keep going the way we are," he concluded.
"Now it’s three wins in a row, and of course we have to keep winning. That’s the most important thing."
