Fabian Hurzeler has refused to take back his comments after claiming only Brighton played football when they faced Arsenal in their previous meeting. The Brighton manager criticised the Gunners’ approach during the match, while Arsenal ultimately secured a 1-0 victory.The game saw Arsenal accused of wasting significant amounts of time, with even some fans and neutrals becoming frustrated by their approach. However, the tactics worked for the Gunners, who held on to claim all three points from the contest.Both teams will meet again today, giving Hurzeler another opportunity to explain his comments. During his pre-match press conference, the Brighton boss insisted that having opinions is important and good for football, making it clear that he continues to stand by what he said previously.Hurzeler Stands By His CommentsHurzeler’s latest stance means there is little doubt that he remains critical of Arsenal’s approach in that previous encounter. With the two teams preparing to face each other again, his comments have added another talking point ahead of the fixture.Mikel Arteta was asked about those claims again, as well as Hurzeler’s decision to maintain his position. The Arsenal manager, however, made it clear that he considers the matter finished and does not want to reopen an old disagreement.Arteta has seen his team criticised by several managers they have faced, meaning he does not consider Hurzeler’s comments to be something particularly new. Instead, he wants to focus on the upcoming meeting between the two sides.(Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)Arteta Looks AheadThe Arsenal boss acknowledged the respect he has for Hurzeler and Brighton, while making it clear that he would rather concentrate on what is ahead. He believes the next match provides an opportunity for both teams to focus on football.Speaking via France24, Arteta said:“That’s all done. That’s all in the past.“I have huge respect for Fabian, and what he’s done and what Brighton has done as a club.“It’s just remarkable, and tomorrow is going to be a beautiful game to watch, I’m sure.”The rematch provides both sides with another chance to settle the matter on the pitch, with attention now turning towards the upcoming fixture._____________________________________________________________________________________________ADMIN COMMENTSo here are some simple rules which I must insist commenters follow….You agree not to give any personal abuse to other Arsenal fans. Everyone is allowed to hold their own opinions even if you disagree with them. It COSTS NOTHING TO BE POLITE TO OTHER ARSENAL FANS.CALLING ALL ARSENAL FANS! Anyone who would like to contribute an Article or Video opinion piece on JustArsenal, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us through this link…More Stories / Latest NewsArteta refuses to reignite war of words with Fabian Hurzeler19 September 2026, 9:00Brighton v Arsenal Team News, Predicted Line-up, Score Prediction19 September 2026, 8:08Brighton v Arsenal Preview: Gunners face major Amex test against free-scoring Seagulls19 September 2026, 7:07The post Arteta refuses to reignite war of words with Fabian Hurzeler appeared first on Just Arsenal News.