Arsenal Drops Points in Brighton Draw as Controversial Penalty Dominates Discussion

A disputed penalty decision and injuries hinder Arsenal's pursuit of Premier League leaders Liverpool, leaving the Gunners five points behind.

• Arsenal drew 1-1 with Brighton after a contentious penalty awarded for a head clash between William Saliba and João Pedro, who converted the spot-kick.
• Ethan Nwaneri, 17, scored Arsenal's opener but was substituted at halftime due to a muscular injury, adding to the team's growing list of absentees.
• The result leaves Arsenal five points behind Liverpool, who have two games in hand and can extend their lead with a win over Manchester United.
• Manager Mikel Arteta criticized the penalty decision as 'bizarre' and highlighted his team's lack of quality and consistency in possession during the match.
• Arsenal faces a congested January schedule with key players like Bukayo Saka, Kai Havertz, and Martin Ødegaard struggling with injuries and illness.

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