Arsenal Leads Premier League with Set-Piece Strength, Rising Star Max Dowman Draws Saka Comparisons

Max Dowman, a promising 15-year-old Arsenal academy player, has drawn comparisons to Bukayo Saka based on his impressive performance and playing style, according to Brighton's manager Fabian Hurzeler. Arsenal's strength this season lies significantly in their set-piece effectiveness and disciplined out-of-possession play, with key contributions from players like Gabriel Magalhaes and Leandro Trossard. Hurzeler acknowledged Arsenal as the top team in the Premier League but emphasized Brighton's efforts to develop their own set-piece culture and defensive resilience against Arsenal's patterns. Meanwhile, fans and commentators have debated the tactical comparisons between Arsenal and Tony Pulis' Stoke City, with many highlighting that Arsenal combines set-piece efficiency with creative, technical football. Arsenal's ability to toggle between different styles, including tiki-taka and set-piece dominance, is seen as a strength that could lead to further success. Injuries to key Brighton players like James Milner, Kaoru Mitoma, and Brajan Gruda pose challenges ahead of their Carabao Cup tie against Arsenal, but manager Hurzeler expresses confidence in his squad's quality and youth players.