Brighton Appoints Youngest Manager in Premier League History

Brighton and Hove Albion has made history by appointing the youngest full-time manager in the English Premier League. Fabian Hurzeler, a 31-year-old American-born coach, has signed a contract with the Seagulls until 2027. This move comes after Hurzeler guided St Pauli to the German Bundesliga second division title last season.

The Seagulls’ new manager

Hurzeler will take charge of a squad where several players, including James Milner, Danny Welbeck, and Lewis Dunk, are older than him. However, Brighton chairman Tony Bloom believes Hurzeler’s experience at St Pauli makes him a standout candidate to succeed Roberto De Zerbi.

A Standout Candidate

“From the start of the process to appoint our new head coach, Fabian was always a standout candidate and one who had caught our attention with his exceptional work at St Pauli over the past 18 months,” said Bloom in a club statement. “He has a style of play that aligns with how we want a Brighton and Hove Albion team to play and I’m confident it is one our supporters will appreciate and enjoy.”

Hurzeler’s previous team

Hurzeler is not the first young coach to take charge of a Premier League team. Ryan Mason, then 29, was briefly Tottenham’s interim boss in 2021. However, Hurzeler is the youngest to do so on a full-time basis since the division’s creation in 1992.

A New Era for Brighton

“The club has a unique history and bold vision for the future, so I am truly excited to be part of the project,” said Hurzeler. With his appointment, Brighton is looking to start a new era under the young coach’s guidance.

The top flight of English football

Hurzeler will start his new job when he receives a work permit before Brighton’s squad embarks on pre-season preparations in July. The Seagulls will be hoping that their new manager’s youthful energy and experience will bring success to the club in the upcoming season.