Arsenal, focus on the championship.

The 1-0 win against Brighton keeps Arsenal in the title race in the Premier League.

However, instead of receiving praise, the London club is facing considerable criticism from both pundits and fans. Many opinions suggest Arsenal is losing its identity by opting for an overly pragmatic, even "ugly," style of play.

Against Brighton, Arsenal did not dominate the game as in previous seasons. The Gunners played compactly, patiently, and only needed one moment to decide the match. After gaining the advantage, Mikel Arteta's team proactively slowed the game's tempo, managed risks, and did not hesitate to use time-wasting tactics to preserve the score.

This is precisely what has drawn criticism towards Arsenal recently. Numerous comments argue the team is "anti-football," focusing too much on seeking corners and set-piece situations instead of building attractive attacking combinations.

In reality, Arsenal this season is utilizing set-pieces extremely effectively. Their corner kicks are meticulously organized with various movement patterns and blocking schemes inside the penalty area. This creates more space for attacking players to finish. This is not accidental but the result of thorough tactical analysis from the coaching staff.

Many experts note Arsenal has fully exploited "loopholes" in the corner-kick defense of many Premier League teams. Their players consistently pressure the opposing goalkeeper and create chaotic situations in the box. In an era where defenses are increasingly well-organized, set-pieces have become a crucial weapon.

Looking back at Arsenal's journey this season, it's clear Arteta's team has undergone a significant shift in mentality. They are no longer overly flamboyant or risky. Instead, they are a cold, patient collective, willing to do whatever it takes to win. This may not be the romantic Arsenal image many once loved. But it is the image of a genuine title contender. In the long Premier League marathon, aesthetics sometimes matter less than effectiveness. And Arsenal is currently prioritizing effectiveness above all.

Therefore, perhaps the Gunners' supporters need not worry too much about the detractors. Keep winning those corners. Keep managing matches in the most pragmatic way. Keep playing that football which frustrates opponents. For too long, the championship trophy has not returned to the Emirates. If Arsenal can claim the crown, it would be a powerful statement that the Gunners remain a force in European football and have never left the big stage.