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Brighton's European Ambitions: Are They Ready for the Challenge?



Few could have predicted that Brighton and Hove Albion would take such a bold step last summer. Hiring 31-year-old Fabian Hürzeler as Roberto De Zerbi's successor raised eyebrows. With no prior experience managing in Europe's top leagues, the decision appeared risky. Fast-forward a few months, and the German has justified the club's faith. Brighton made their best-ever Premier League start, collecting 22 points from their first 12 matches.

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He has yielded impressive results. Brighton have already beaten Manchester City, Tottenham, and Manchester United while securing a draw at Arsenal. The Seagulls are not just competing; they are going toe-to-toe with the league's elite. So far, the tactical nous Hürzeler has displayed suggests Brighton's recruitment gamble may well pay off.

The Evolution of a Squad​

For a long time, Brighton sold players for big profits. That changed last summer. They spent €231.2 million on new players and broke their transfer record twice. Yankuba Minteh came from Newcastle for €35 million. Georginio Rutter joined from Leeds for €46.7 million. It was a big shift for a club that usually saves money.

They didn’t just spend for the sake of it. They focused on young players, all 24 or younger. That keeps the team fresh and helps for the future. Hürzeler now has a squad full of energy and potential. Despite all the new faces, the club has stuck to its long-term plan.

Are They Built for a European Push?​

Brighton started strong but then hit a rough patch. They picked up only 12 points in their next 12 games, slipping to 10th place after 24 matches. The dream of European football is still alive, but it’s not a sure thing.

A similar drop hurt them last season. This time, they might handle it better. Without European games, they can focus fully on the league. Hürzeler has also helped key players improve. Danny Welbeck already has six goals, more than he managed last season. Jack Hinshelwood is stepping up, and Jan Paul van Hecke has been one of the league’s best defenders.

Fans hoping for a top finish can stay optimistic. Those looking to place a bet on Brighton’s European hopes can also take advantage of Betano’s UK sign-up offers for extra sportsbook bonuses. The race isn’t over yet, and Brighton still has a chance.

The Best-Run Club in England?​

Brighton have built a reputation as one of the Premier League’s most efficiently run clubs. Tony Bloom and Paul Barber have shaped a model that prioritizes smart recruitment and long-term planning. The club has consistently unearthed, developed, and sold talents for huge profits. Moisés Caicedo arrived for just €5 million and departed for €116 million. Marc Cucurella was signed for €18 million and later sold for €65.3 million.

Unlike previous seasons, Brighton reinvested significantly last summer. They were the second-highest spenders in world football, behind only Chelsea. Six of their seven most expensive signings arrived in one window. That shift in approach underlines a growing ambition. Brighton are no longer content with being a team that sells its best assets. They are looking to compete at the top.

Final Words​

Brighton has done a great job getting this far. The next step is much harder. To qualify for Europe, they need more than just smart transfers. They need to stay consistent, have depth in their squad, and keep their form all season.

They are still outside the top spots. But with a young manager and a talented squad, they have the tools to push forward. The Champions League might be too much to ask, but a Europa League or Conference League spot is possible. Brighton is still growing, and their rise isn’t slowing down.
 


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