Guimaraes and Konsa label Arsenal’s Brighton loss unacceptable
Bruno Guimaraes and Ezri Konsa have both called Arsenal’s 3‑0 defeat at Brighton “unacceptable”, warning that the Gunners’ title defence could be in jeopardy if such performances continue. The Brazilian midfielder and the new centre‑back said the display fell far short of the standards expected at a club fighting for the Premier League crown.
Players condemn the performance
Comments Sport by Ryan Taylor at 12:00 on 20 Sep 2026 recorded the reaction of the two newcomers, who both suffered their first defeat as Arsenal players. Guimaraes said: “We were not good enough, so far off our level this time. We are very disappointed and we have to learn from our mistakes because today we were far away off our level.” He added that the Gunners cannot accept such a display while wearing the shirt of a champion.
He also highlighted the tactical shortcomings, admitting the squad gave too much space to Brighton’s attackers. “We gave them too much time on the ball, we know the quality that they have,” Guimaraes explained, referring to Pascal Gross and Charalampos Kostoulas who scored the two first‑half goals. “They were two amazing shots, but we can do better and we have to do better.”
Mikel Arteta later claimed he knew Arsenal were “not at the races” after the first throw‑in of the contest, underscoring the manager’s concern over the team’s early‑game shape.
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Konsa echoed his teammate’s frustration. “It wasn’t good enough. We have high standards here and we let them go today,” he said, stressing his pride in keeping clean sheets. “We conceded two goals from outside the box – very good strikes – but we could have pressed more and reduced the space they had.”
Chema Andres netted Brighton’s third, sealing a 3‑0 win that leaves Arsenal waiting three weeks for a home clash with Leeds. View 3 Images captured the disappointment on the pitch as the Gunners regroup.
Guimaraes reflects on adaptation
Despite the setback, Guimaraes reminded fans of his promising start, noting the £75 million summer transfer from Newcastle and his stunner in the recent 2‑0 victory over Sunderland. “I think I’ve been adapting well,” he said, adding that today was “a bad day at the office for everyone”.
He concluded with a forward‑looking note, urging the squad to focus on the national team duties before returning to the Premier League. “We have to learn, we have to apologise to the fans, and we must win the next games,” Guimaraes asserted, as Arsenal prepare to face Leeds in their next fixture.