At a glance
- Yankuba Minteh impressed in Brighton’s 3-0 win over Leeds in November
- The winger scored in Brighton’s recent victory over Wolves
- His pace and direct running suit Fabian Hurzeler’s system against Leeds
When Brighton & Hove Albion take on Leeds United at Elland Road this weekend, much of the focus will naturally fall on the race for Europe. But one player could be especially decisive in how Fabian Hurzeler’s side approaches the game. That player is Yankuba Minteh.
The winger caused Leeds major problems in the reverse fixture in November, and his recent form suggests he could again be central to Brighton’s attacking threat.
Yankuba Minteh Hurt Leeds Before
Brighton’s 3-0 win over Leeds at the Amex was one of their most complete displays of the season, and Minteh played a huge role despite not getting on the scoresheet.
Operating on the right flank, he repeatedly isolated Leeds’ left side and drove directly at his marker. His acceleration and close control made him Brighton’s most dangerous outlet in transition, and several of the side’s best openings came through his movement. He created the space that led to the opener and consistently stretched Leeds whenever Brighton won the ball high.
That match showed a clear weakness in Leeds’ setup. Their full-backs often push high to support attacks, which can leave space behind them if possession is turned over quickly. Minteh’s ability to attack those channels made him difficult to contain, and Brighton exploited that route throughout the afternoon.
Why Minteh Suits Leeds Clash
Minteh heads into Sunday on the back of another important contribution. In Brighton’s 3-0 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers, he got on the scoresheet and looked sharp throughout.
This was particularly evident when he was moved over to the left wing, after teammate Kaoru Mitoma was forced off with a hamstring injury. The goal underlined the confidence he is currently playing with, but just as important was the way he carried Brighton up the pitch whenever the game became stretched.
That matters against Leeds. Daniel Farke’s side can be aggressive in pressing high, but that also creates moments where quick wingers can break beyond the first line. Minteh’s pace gives Brighton a direct route out of pressure, especially away from home.
READ MORE: What Brighton Learned From Their Last Meeting With Leeds United – Read Brighton
Brighton May Need Minteh Again
Under Fabian Hurzeler this season, Minteh’s role has become more defined. Rather than staying wide for long periods, he often starts on the touchline before driving inside or attacking the half-space once Brighton win possession. That movement is particularly effective against teams like Leeds, who commit numbers forward and can leave gaps between full-back and centre-back.
Hurzeler’s vertical style relies on quick transitions, aggressive pressing and direct runners. Minteh fits that perfectly. He draws defenders towards him, commits them one-on-one and creates space for overlapping runners or central players arriving late into the box.
That is exactly what made him so effective in the reverse fixture, and it is why he may be Brighton’s most dangerous weapon again this weekend.
With Europe still within reach, Brighton need players who can turn tight moments into chances. Against Leeds, Minteh’s pace, confidence and tactical role under Hurzeler make him one of the biggest reasons to believe they can do just that.
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