Arsenal player ratings vs Brighton: Havertz gets 2/10 as defender suffers embarrassing afternoon

Arsenal player ratings vs BrightonArsenal’s unbeaten start to the season ended emphatically at the Amex as Brighton produced a relentless display, exposing defensive weaknesses and leaving Mikel Arteta’s side chasing the game throughout.

Arsenal Player Ratings in Brighton humbling

David Raya — 4/10

Unconvincing with the ball early on and beaten twice from distance. Looked uncertain defending corners, though he made a good late save from O’Riley.

Jurrien Timber — 3/10

Rusty on his return to the starting XI, with an early misplaced pass setting the tone. Offered little going forward and badly lost Chema Andres for Brighton’s third.

Ezri Konsa — 4/10

Looked nervous in possession and struggled whenever Brighton attacked at pace. Too passive when facing runners and produced one of his poorest Arsenal performances.

Gabriel — 3/10

Failed to close down Brighton’s shooters for the opening two goals. His defensive display was passive, while an unnecessary dive under no contact summed up his afternoon.

Riccardo Calafiori — 4/10

Could have done more to prevent Gross’ goal and was slow recovering during Brighton’s transitions. Improved going forward, delivering a dangerous cross late on.

Declan Rice — 6/10

Arsenal’s most energetic midfielder, repeatedly trying to drive the team forward. Nearly broke through Brighton’s midfield with a powerful run but received little support.

Bruno Guimaraes — 3/10

Unable to match Brighton’s tempo and repeatedly gave possession away. Struggled badly during transitions and looked a clear candidate for substitution at half-time.

Bukayo Saka — 5/10

One of Arsenal’s better performers, attacking directly and finding some joy against Boscagli. Created an opening for Tzolis but lacked the final product.

Martin Odegaard — 3/10

Missed an opportunity before Brighton quickly doubled their advantage. Too predictable when cutting inside and failed to provide the creativity Arsenal desperately needed.

Christos Tzolis — 3/10

Another difficult away performance. A poor touch wasted a promising Saka pass, while he became increasingly isolated and had little influence after the interval.

Kai Havertz — 2/10

A hugely frustrating afternoon. Struggled to hold up play, conceded the corner before Brighton’s third and later fired straight at the goalkeeper when clean through.

Substitutes

Martin Zubimendi — 4/10

Moved between midfield and right-back after replacing Timber but never matched Brighton’s intensity or imposed himself on a game Arsenal were already struggling to control.

Mikel Merino — 4/10

Entered with Arsenal already facing a significant deficit and could not alter the momentum. Brighton continued to dominate the midfield battle.

Viktor Gyokeres — 6/10

Provided greater movement than recent appearances, running the channels effectively and producing an excellent pass behind the defence for Havertz.

Eberechi Eze — 4/10

Received a hostile reception from the Brighton supporters but had virtually no opportunity to influence proceedings after coming on.

Max Dowman — N/A

Introduced late for Saka with the contest effectively settled and had too little time to make a meaningful impact.