Guardian writers’ predicted position for Brighton & Hove Albion is 9th, though this figure represents the average of our writers’ tips rather than a specific forecast from John Brewin. The club enters the 2026-27 campaign following a final day in May where fans and players united to celebrate qualification for the Europa Conference League, despite a 3-0 loss to Manchester United. With West Ham and Crystal Palace having already won the competition, lifting that trophy is a clear target, though the Thursday-Sunday schedule presents a significant challenge.
The squad is undergoing a period of transition. James Milner retired at the end of the previous season, and the departure of Danny Welbeck—last season’s outstanding forward—leaves a major void. The veteran class, each older than 33-year-old head coach Fabian Hürzeler, has been reduced to Pascal Gross, Lewis Dunk, and reserve goalkeeper Jason Steele. Notably, Steele’s contributions remain highly regarded; when Jordan Henderson celebrated England’s third-place finish at the World Cup, he ensured Steele received a medal for his acclaimed work as a training goalkeeper. Additionally, Yasin Ayari made history as the first Brighton player to score two World Cup goals in a game during Sweden’s 5-1 victory over Tunisia.
Defensive changes have been substantial. Jan Paul van Hecke, the team’s best defender last season, was sold to Tottenham for £52m, with teenager Luka Vuskovic moving in the opposite direction. Vuskovic’s fee was reported at £46m when Spurs originally paid £12m for him, highlighting the high demand for his talents. While Brighton hopes Vuskovic will thrive, the signing of experienced centre-back Pascal Struijk from Leeds provides cover. Him turning 36 in November adds a note of curiosity to that transfer, as the club balances immediate needs with long-term development.
Brighton’s history in Europe serves as a cautionary tale. Fans enjoyed reaching the last 16 of the Europa League three seasons ago, but the campaign had a deleterious effect on domestic form, stretching resources and straining relations with then-manager Roberto De Zerbi as the team finished a disappointing 11th. Hürzeler, who has done much growing up in public, retains the backing of owner Tony Bloom and chief executive Paul Barber. When a new three-year contract was announced in May, Bloom specifically referred to a “clear playing identity” as the foundation for the club’s future.
Infrastructure remains a priority at the Amex. Safe standing is being expanded in the South Stand as part of a £40m modernisation project, with work scheduled for September’s international break. For Albion fans seeking a middle ground between the posh seats and pre-match drinks in the concourse, there’s the opening of the 1901 Pub, a “hybrid traditional pub and premium matchday lounge designed for a more relaxed fan experience”. With a capacity of 660, membership starts at £173 a month. In January, “the Lizard”—as Bloom is known in gambling circles—increased his investment with a £107m loan, bringing his total loan amount to £400m.
On the pitch, the club remains prolific. Only the two Manchester clubs scored more Premier League goals in regular play last season. While the Seagulls dropped slightly in the standings when counterattacks were included, they maintained an identical rate for open-play expected goals per game as Arsenal in 2025-26. To maintain this output, the club relies on patience with new arrivals. Charalampos Kostoulas, signed from Olympiakos last summer, showed flashes of talent during the 2025-26 campaign, including a brilliant overhead kick against Bournemouth in January. At 19, he is expected to receive more playing time this season to help fill the vacancy left by Welbeck’s departure. The report also notes that his touchline behaviour does not always meet the approval of officials and opposing coaches but he enters the season as the fifth longest-serving manager in the Premier League and will be showing off a severe hair remode. The report also notes that a surprise to a long-serving and popular player whose injury problems counted against him, solly March not being offered a new contract was another break from the past. The report also notes that such is the industry’s respect for the club’s recruitment, if Brighton supporters are wondering about their club’s slew of new signings then their Premier League peers will be watching as closely. The report also notes that the Jamestown Analytics company owned by Tony Bloom, Brighton’s financier, is a football Rosetta Stone, admired and coveted. The report also notes that it is not, though, completely infallible; there have been a number of busts. The report also notes that better is hoped for this time around. The report also notes that the ownership is among the most mindful of the matchday experience in English football. The report also notes that there can be no doubt that Brighton’s continued success relies on the patronage and funds of Bloom.
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