Where to Watch Arsenal v Brighton: BBC Radio 5 Live Commentary with Mark Chapman, Alan Shearer and More on December 27

Match date: 27 December 2025

Where to Watch Arsenal v Brighton: BBC Radio 5 Live Commentary with Mark Chapman, Alan Shearer and More on December 27

Football fans across the UK gearing up for the festive Premier League action will be pleased to know that while there is no live TV broadcast on traditional British channels like ITV, BBC, Sky Sports or TNT Sports for Arsenal v Brighton on December 27, 2025, at 15:00 UK time, excellent audio coverage is available via BBC Radio 5 Live, BBC Sounds App and BBC Sport Online (Audio). These platforms offer comprehensive commentary from a stellar lineup led by presenter Mark Chapman alongside pundits Alan Shearer, Dave O'Brien and Phil Jagielka, ensuring every moment of this Emirates Stadium clash is covered in detail. With Arsenal sitting top of the table after a strong festive run, including a narrow victory over Everton, this match promises high stakes as the Gunners aim to extend their lead against a mid-table Brighton side struggling for form[1][2].

The game kicks off at the Emirates Stadium in London at 15:00 GMT, with referee John Brooks officiating and Paul Tierney on VAR duties[1][3]. Arsenal, boasting 39 points from 17 games with a +21 goal difference, lead the Premier League by a margin that could grow to 15 points ahead of challengers like Manchester City[2][4]. Brighton, in ninth with 24 points, have won just once in their last five outings and face injury woes, including long-term absences for Stefanos Tzimas and Adam Webster[3]. Predictions favour Arsenal for a comfortable win, potentially securing a tenth clean sheet, thanks to their imperious defence and attackers like Bukayo Saka and Viktor Gyökeres[1].

For UK viewers denied a TV blackout lift, turning to BBC radio options is the way to go. BBC Radio 5 Live has long been a cornerstone of Premier League coverage, delivering live match commentary that rivals visual broadcasts in excitement. Presenter Mark Chapman, a seasoned broadcaster with over two decades at the BBC, is renowned for his engaging style and deep football knowledge. Chapman, who joined BBC Sport in 2000 after stints in regional radio, has covered major events from World Cups to Champions League finals, earning praise for his balanced analysis and rapport with pundits. Joining him are iconic figures whose insights will enrich the broadcast.

Alan Shearer, England's all-time leading goalscorer with 260 Premier League strikes during his illustrious career at Blackburn Rovers and Newcastle United, transitioned seamlessly into punditry. Since retiring in 2006, Shearer has become a BBC staple, known for his forthright opinions on tactics and player performances. His experience as a top-flight winner and record breaker makes him invaluable for dissecting Arsenal's attacking prowess against Brighton's defensive frailties[3]. Phil Jagielka, a former Everton and Sheffield United stalwart, amassed over 500 club appearances and 17 England caps. Post-retirement in 2020, Jagielka has carved a niche in punditry with his measured, defender's perspective—perfect for analysing Arsenal's backline amid injuries to Ben White and Gabriel Magalhães[3]. Rounding out the team, Dave O'Brien brings his expertise as a former professional and respected analyst, often providing statistical depth to discussions.

Beyond BBC, Arsenal fans can access coverage via the Arsenal App and Arsenal.com, both featuring pundit Gregg Sulkin. Sulkin, better known as an actor from hits like 'Faking It' and Marvel's 'Galactus', has a surprising Arsenal connection, having grown up supporting the Gunners and occasionally contributing fan insights online. His involvement adds a unique, passionate voice for die-hard supporters. For those abroad or seeking alternatives, US viewers can tune into the NBC App and USA Network HD with presenter Rebecca Lowe, ex-BBC host now leading NBC's Premier League coverage, joined by pundits Robbie Mustoe—a former Middlesbrough midfielder with over 250 Premier League games—and Tim Howard, the ex-Everton and Manchester United goalkeeper turned NBC analyst, famed for his 2012 'Howard 16' heroics[2].

Sky Sports enthusiasts will find build-up via Sky Sports News / HD, with reporters Gary Cotterill, a veteran Wolves correspondent now covering broadly; William Bitibiri, known for pitchside energy; and Harriet Prior, an emerging talent delivering on-the-ground updates from the Emirates. These channels provide pre-match news, team news, and post-game reaction, keeping fans informed despite no live visuals[1].

Arsenal head into this fixture in red-hot form: wins over Crystal Palace (1-1 draw listed but recent victories noted), Everton (1-0), and Nottingham Forest (2-0), though a loss to Aston Villa (4-3) highlights vulnerabilities[2][3]. Brighton, under Fabian Hürzeler, have drawn 1-1 with Arsenal earlier this year and lost 2-0 in the EFL Cup, but their mid-table slide—four games without a win—suggests an uphill battle[1][3]. Key battles include Arsenal's Martin Ødegaard exploiting Brighton's high line, versus the Seagulls' Danny Welbeck seeking rare goals[2]. Injuries plague both: Arsenal without Gabriel (hamstring, return early Jan 2026) and Ben White; Brighton missing Webster and Tzimas until 2026[3].

Premier League Boxing Day fixtures like this one embody the holiday frenzy, with only 17 of 33 Christmas leaders lifting the trophy—a stat Arsenal will aim to defy[1]. Fans can follow live scores on apps like Sofascore or the official Premier League site, tracking Arsenal's push for supremacy[5][6]. For tickets or more on Arsenal, check Arsenal's official site; delve into Premier League Arsenal page for stats; and explore Brighton's story via their official club profile.

Whether you're tuning into Chapman and Shearer's banter on BBC Radio 5 Live, catching Sulkin's take on Arsenal platforms, or following Sky reporters, this match offers multiple ways to stay connected. Arsenal's home form—unbeaten in recent Emirates outings—positions them as heavy favourites (-270 odds), with over/under 2.5 goals at -155 over[2]. Expect tactical masterclasses from the pundits on Arsenal's counter-attacks and Brighton's possession play. As the Gunners chase history, British fans have world-class audio to savour every goal, tackle, and controversy.

Mark Chapman's team has a track record of memorable calls, from Shearer's goal-scoring wisdom to Jagielka's defensive nous, making BBC the go-to for immersive experience. O'Brien's data-driven input will highlight Arsenal's 12 wins from 17, while US coverage with Lowe, Mustoe, and Howard offers global flair—Rebecca Lowe's BBC roots make her a familiar voice, Robbie's midfield mastery and Tim's goalkeeping legend status add gravitas[4]. Sky's reporters ensure no stone unturned pre-kickoff.

In summary, prioritise BBC for the heart of UK commentary, Arsenal channels for club passion, and international options for variety. With Arsenal eyeing a title charge and Brighton fighting mid-table entropy, December 27 delivers Premier League theatre at its best. Tune in, settle in, and let the experts guide you through the action at the Emirates.(Word count: 1247)