Brighton’s Danny Welbeck and Joao Pedro have started the season in excellent form, causing problems for defenders both with and without the ball. They played a key role in Brighton’s wins against Everton and Manchester United, both getting on the scoresheet. However, this Saturday, they face a much tougher challenge against Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium. Arsenal’s center-backs, William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes, are one of the strongest defensive pairings in the Premier League.
Saliba and Gabriel have been exceptional, helping Arsenal keep 30 clean sheets in 63 Premier League games together. They are tall, strong, quick, and love to defend, often celebrating their defensive actions. Since they started playing together, Mikel Arteta’s win rate has soared to 76% when they are both in the team. Their partnership is the best Arsenal has seen in years, with only Gabriel Paulista and Laurent Koscielny’s brief partnership in 2015-16 coming close in terms of clean sheet ratio.
For Brighton to have a chance, Welbeck and Joao Pedro will need to be at their best, using their mobility and pressing ability to disrupt Arsenal’s defense. Gabriel, while outstanding, can be more prone to errors on the ball, which Brighton will likely try to exploit. Welbeck’s hold-up play, a key part of his game, will be tested by Saliba and Gabriel, who excel in winning duels. This match promises to be an exciting battle, especially between Brighton’s in-form forwards and Arsenal’s formidable defense.
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