At a glance
- Fabian Hurzeler explains reasons behind new Brighton deal
- Brighton boss outlines ambitions to “win something”
- Wolves warning issued ahead of Premier League clash
Brighton and Hove Albion head coach Fabian Hurzeler says the club’s ambition to “win something” played a major role in his decision to commit his long-term future to the Seagulls.
Speaking ahead of Saturday’s Premier League clash against Wolverhampton Wanderers, Hurzeler reflected on the trust shown by Brighton’s hierarchy after agreeing a new deal despite only arriving at the club last summer.
The 33-year-old admitted there had been interest from elsewhere following Brighton’s impressive recovery in the second half of the season, but insisted he believes the club is only at the beginning of its journey.
Why Hurzeler Committed His Future to Brighton
“I always felt that we are building something,” Hurzeler said.
“We started to build a foundation and I see a bright future for this club. I feel that it’s not done yet. We can keep building and making the next step together.”
Hurzeler also made it clear that Brighton’s ambitions stretch beyond simply being viewed as one of the Premier League’s best-run clubs.
He said: “In the end we want to be a club that is not only known for being well structured or well run. We also want to be known as a club that can achieve something and win something.”
Hurzeler focused on standards and response against Wolves
Despite the positivity surrounding his new contract, Hurzeler insisted his full focus remains on Brighton’s final three matches as they continue their push for European qualification.
The Brighton boss described “clarity” as one of the main reasons behind confirming his future before the end of the campaign, allowing the club to avoid distractions during a crucial stage of the season.
“There are always noises at the end of the season with offers from other clubs and rumours around players,” he said.
“For me and the club it was important to have clarity and focus only on performances.”
READ MORE: The Key Lessons Brighton Must Take From the Wolves Draw – Read Brighton | Read Brighton
Focus Turns to Wolves and European Push
Hurzeler also challenged his players to respond strongly after last weekend’s defeat to Newcastle United ended a five-match unbeaten run.
The 33-year-old said: “We have to bounce back after the defeat against Newcastle. That’s our responsibility now.”
The German warned against complacency against a Wolves side already relegated from the Premier League, praising their organisation and defensive structure despite their poor away form.
“When you only look at the results that’s one perspective, but you also have to see how they are playing,” Hurzeler explained.
“They are well organised, very disciplined and they still have players with individual quality who can hurt you.”
The Brighton boss expects his side to face a compact defensive block at the Amex Stadium and stressed the importance of patience and discipline both in and out of possession.
“It’s about not trying to force it,” he said.
“We need to stay disciplined, defend well and keep a clean sheet because that gives you a strong chance to win games at this stage of the season.”
READ MORE: Fabian Hurzeler’s Brighton Reign So Far – Read Brighton | Read Brighton
Building Brighton’s Long-Term Culture
The Brighton head coach also reiterated his desire to build a strong “high-performance culture” at the club, insisting standards and togetherness will be just as important as tactical quality moving forward.
Hurzeler added: “I want to build a culture where you support each other, challenge each other and improve together. If you focus on the process and improving players, then long-term the results will come.”
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