Guardian writers’ predicted position: 11th (Note: this reflects the average of our writers’ predictions, not necessarily Ed Aarons’ forecast)
Last season’s position: 11th
Prospects
There’s a wave of renewed optimism following Roberto De Zerbi’s departure, coinciding with the appointment of the Premier League’s youngest-ever permanent manager, Fabian Hürzeler. The 31-year-old, who led St Pauli to Bundesliga promotion last season, is viewed as a wise successor to the enigmatic Italian.
De Zerbi achieved significant milestones during his two seasons, notably a dramatic comeback against Marseille that propelled Brighton into the last 16 of the Europa League. However, finishing in 11th place marred his departure after a season heavily impacted by injuries, suggesting it was the appropriate moment for both sides to part ways.
Hürzeler’s challenge is to build upon the strides made under De Zerbi with a talented squad poised to vie for a top-half finish, though replicating their sixth-place standing from 2022-23 may be challenging. The return of Kaoru Mitoma from injury will be crucial as the Japan forward missed the last three months of the previous season due to a back issue. New signings, Ibrahim Osman and Yankuba Minteh, add depth to a team that already features Simon Adingra and João Pedro.
Brighton’s primary concerns appear to lie in midfield, with the departure of long-time player Pascal Gross and the potential loss of Billy Gilmour. Hürzeler will be counting on the £25m Netherlands international, Mats Wieffer, to bolster the emerging talent of Carlos Baleba.
With no European commitments this season, things may be more straightforward for Brighton. The fans are quietly optimistic that their eighth consecutive Premier League campaign could yield memorable moments.
The manager
Hürzeler, who Brighton’s chief executive Paul Barber labeled as “humble, smart, intelligent, and a great communicator,” was born in the USA, raised in Munich, and holds Swiss nationality. He is seven years younger than player James Milner, but his rapid rise after just 18 months at St Pauli hints at a bright future. Hürzeler typically employs an attacking 3-4-3 strategy with a focus on maintaining possession, viewing Brighton’s data-driven tactics as the “perfect match.” His penchant for picking up yellow cards for sideline antics is likely to resonate with Brighton fans familiar with De Zerbi’s touchline fervor.
Off-field picture
Owner Tony Bloom, known for being reserved, has been unusually vocal about profitability and sustainability regulations. “It would be much better if clubs didn’t put the Premier League in a situation where points deductions are necessary,” he remarked upon Hürzeler’s July appointment. Bloom has invested over £400m in Brighton since 2007, and thanks to his savvy ownership that resulted in record profits of £122m last year, the club is not at risk of any sanctions for the time being. Fans should be pleased to see part of those profits used to enhance the squad with over £75m expended this summer.
Breakout star
“I believe in Carlos,” said De Zerbi regarding Baleba after a 1-1 draw with Everton in February. “He has the potential to become one of the best players in the Premier League.” Earlier, the 20-year-old all-action Cameroon midfielder had been labeled as “not ready for the Premier League” by his manager, alluding to Brighton’s strategy of recruiting young talents. Baleba, who joined as Moisés Caicedo’s replacement from Lille last summer, has shown noticeable improvement in his debut Premier League season, culminating in his international debut in June.
The A-lister
Mitoma’s star power dictated the location of Brighton’s pre-season tour. The club has been sharing daily updates featuring the Japan forward’s return to his homeland, with Milner handing the captaincy to the 27-year-old during a 4-2 victory over Tokyo Verdy. “There’s been a lot of demand on him, to come home and all the appearances he has to do,” Milner said. “Everyone loves him as we do, but it’s been a tough week for him.” Hürzeler mentioned that Mitoma, who previously attracted attention from Liverpool and Manchester City, is not yet at full fitness but is hopeful for a timely recovery for the new season.
What they did this summer
Lewis Dunk was a spectator during Euro 2024 as England reached the final but was a significant presence in the squad off the field. The Netherlands’ goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen saw more action, though he may miss the start of the new season due to injury. Of Brighton’s South American players, Jeremy Sarmiento, who was on loan at West Brom and Ipswich last season, scored for Ecuador in the Copa América group stage, only for them to bow out to Argentina in penalties during the quarter-finals. Meanwhile, Julio Enciso’s Paraguay failed to advance beyond the group stage before Enciso participated in the Olympics, where his team lost to Egypt in penalties in the quarter-finals.
