Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi had branded Arsenal as 'fantastic', as Mikel Arteta's side prepare to visit the Amex Stadium looking to maintain their lead at the top of the Premier League table.
The Gunners have enjoyed a remarkable season to date, currently boasting a five-point lead over reigning champions Manchester City at the Premier League's summit. Having returned to top-flight action on Boxing Day, Arsenal came from a goal behind to beat West Ham United and claim their 15th win of the campaign.
Such an advantage could stretch to eight points courtesy of a win against the Seagulls this evening, though Arteta will be aware of the hosts' capabilities after they dumped Arsenal out of the Carabao Cup in November following a 3-1 at the Emirates Stadium.
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Despite overseeing that previous win, De Zerbi, understandably, was full of praise for his upcoming opponents and the calibre of players Brighton will face in his pre-match press conference. "Arsenal are fantastic. They know exactly what they need to do on the pitch, and have some very good players," the Italian said. "It will be a good game."
De Zerbi, who joined the Seagulls following a spell in charge of Ukrainian side Shakhtar Donetsk, also outlined the potential of reported Arsenal target Mykhaylo Mudryk.
Mudryk has established himself as one of the standout young attackers in world football, registering 18 goal involvements this term. The Gunners saw a £55million bid including add-ons rejected earlier this week and are expected to return with a higher offer for the 21-year-old when the January transfer window opens.
And according to his former manager, any fee will be wisely spent. De Zerbi added: "Mudryk is a fantastic player, but Brighton can't buy him," he said. "I like him, because I like all my ex-players. But Brighton can't buy him, Arsenal, I don't know.
"I think Mudryk can win the Ballon d'Or in the future. I know the value of Mudryk, he has the potential to win the Ballon d'Or."
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