Marco Silva believes Fulham's performance against Arsenal was not tough enough in terms of physicality and defense.

Fulham lost 0-3 to Arsenal in the 35th round of the 2025/26 Premier League season, failing to turn the tide after conceding three goals in the first half. Manager Marco Silva stated that his team was not strong enough in one-on-one duels and in crucial moments.

In the 9th minute, Saka received the ball, broke into the penalty area, and crossed it in front of the goal. Dzekeresh then slotted the ball home, giving Arsenal a 1-0 lead. In the 40th minute, Eze orchestrated an attack with a through ball. Dzekeresh dealt with the defense and passed back to Saka, who received the pass and fired a low shot into the net, extending Arsenal's lead over Fulham to 2-0.

In the first half stoppage time, Trossard dribbled into the penalty area and then chipped the ball to Dzekeresh in front of the goal, who headed the ball into the net to help Arsenal extend their lead to 3-0.

Ultimately, Fulham were defeated 0-3 by Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium. After losing three points, Fulham are now 10th in the league table with 48 points.

Fulham manager Marco Silva said, "We certainly have to congratulate Arsenal on the three points, but we made it too easy for them, especially in the first half. We were not at the level required for this level of competition."

“We have always been a tough team to beat because we are always very competitive and play very bravely. We have a distinct style of play, but these characteristics were not reflected at all in the first half. We had anticipated that Arsenal would start that way, and our plan was to start strong and show our style of play on the field.”

Marco Silva pointed out, "However, when you come to a stadium like this, it's not easy to get into the rhythm of the game immediately. The strength of the opponent and their pressing ability will make things difficult. We must be tough enough in one-on-one situations, be able to control the ball, and be able to get past the defense. And when we're off the ball, we must also do the most basic things well."

“If you look at the three goals we conceded in the first half, you’ll see that our performance was far from meeting the standards of the Premier League. I’m not talking about the game against Arsenal, but the standard of the Premier League itself.”

Furthermore, Marco Silva stated, "Our defense in the penalty area also fell short of expectations. We weren't tough enough in crucial moments, which is why we were frustrated in the first half and disappointed in every aspect of the game. We were outplayed in every way in the first half."

"We had to make a completely different performance in the second half. We did improve, but it was too late. The damage was already done."

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