Pascal Gross confirms Germany retirement after starring in Brighton's 3-0 demolition of Arsenal

Pascal Gross announced his retirement from international football moments after delivering one of his finest performances of the season, as Brighton dismantled Arsenal 3-0 at the Amex Stadium on Saturday.

The 35-year-old midfielder scored and provided an assist as Fabian Hurzeler’s side ran out comfortable winners, with Charalampos Kostoulas and Chema Andres also on the scoresheet. The result extended Brighton’s strong early-season form and left Arsenal with a chastening afternoon.

Speaking after the final whistle, Gross confirmed what had not yet been made official. “Since I don’t have social media, I haven’t announced my retirement, but I have already retired,” he said. “For me, it was over after the World Cup. I think it’s time to wish the new generation nothing but the best and to keep my fingers crossed for them.”

The German’s decision means he will not feature in Jurgen Klopp’s plans for the national side, closing the door on a 19-cap international career. His club form, however, remains exceptional — Saturday’s contributions brought his tally to four goals and four assists in just eight appearances across all competitions since rejoining Brighton from Borussia Dortmund in the summer.

Gross was candid about how much he is enjoying his return to the south coast. “I thought we showed great intensity, waited for mistakes and punished Arsenal. It was a strong performance, a very complete performance,” he said. “We won the ball high up and attacked really fast. After the last two wins we are full of confidence and wanted to finish really strong before the international break.”

He also acknowledged the demanding schedule that awaits after the break. “I know after the international break we play every three days and a lot of the lads are not used to that. It will be tough. I hope we can compete. We have a big squad this season.”

Manager Hurzeler was effusive in his praise, drawing on a well-worn but fitting analogy. “You can compare him a little bit with a good wine — the older he gets, the better he is,” the Brighton head coach said. “He’s not only a player who makes his team-mates better, he’s not only a player who really understands the game so well. The things you can’t measure are the things we see in the daily business and on the training ground.”