Having registered their highest-ever finish last season, Brighton & Hove Albion will play Europa League football in 2023-24. Can Roberto De Zerbi continue to improve his talented squad?
• Manager: Roberto De Zerbi
• Stadium: American Express Community Stadium
• Last Season: 6th
Many believed that Brighton would fall apart when Graham Potter left for Chelsea, but De Zerbi picked up where Potter left off before taking the Seagulls to new heights.
Now, Brighton are regarded as one of the most entertaining teams in the Premier League.
When Potter left the Amex to take the Chelsea job last September, it looked as though all of his hard work would count for nothing. However, De Zerbi swiftly made his mark on the team to ease the fans’ fears.
After thrashing Chelsea 4-1 in October, the Seagulls secured memorable victories over the likes of Liverpool and Manchester United before defeating title hopefuls Arsenal 3-0 during the final month of the campaign.
Thanks to De Zerbi’s innovative approach, Brighton achieved their best-ever Premier League ranking, finishing sixth - nine points shy of the top four - while securing European football for the 2023-24 season.
Brighton have already lost Alexis Mac Allister to Liverpool this summer, while several high-profile clubs are reportedly interested in signing Moises Caicedo. However, the Seagulls have an action plan in place.
Joao Pedro, Bart Verbruggen and Igor have joined the club in recent weeks, while James Milner and Mahmoud Dahoud have arrived on free transfers, giving De Zerbi plenty of options.
Let’s not forget that Brighton also have Pascall Gross and Kaoru Mitomain their ranks. Gross racked up 10 goals and 10 assists in all competitions last term, while Mitoma contributed 10 goals and eight assists.
Given that Brighton now have the demands of European football to contend with, emulating last season’s sixth-place finish will be difficult.
That said, the Seagulls have soared under De Zerbi and have the potential to improve in 2023-24.
Ultimately, another top-half finish in the Premier League and a deep cup run would be seen as a success for Brighton.
If De Zerbi’s men can pick up where they left off last season, however, they could do even better.
Do you find that interesting? Then check out our Luton Town Insight!