Brighton & Hove Albion, under the astute management of Roberto De Zerbi, have become one of the most exciting teams to watch in the Premier League. Known for their possession-based football, tactical flexibility, and a strong emphasis on player development, Brighton’s recruitment strategy has been equally impressive. With a fresh influx of £125 million in talent, the Seagulls are well-positioned to compete at a higher level. This new talent injection, combined with their existing squad, creates an intriguing puzzle for De Zerbi to assemble his best starting lineup.
Goalkeeper: Bart Verbruggen
The Dutch goalkeeper, Bart Verbruggen, represents the future for Brighton between the sticks. Signed for a significant fee, Verbruggen is known for his excellent shot-stopping ability, command of the area, and, importantly for De Zerbi’s system, his distribution skills. In a team that values building from the back, Verbruggen’s ability to play out under pressure makes him the ideal choice to start over the experienced Jason Steele, offering a mix of youth and quality.
Defense: Pervis Estupiñán, Lewis Dunk, Jan Paul van Hecke, and James Milner
Left-Back: Pervis Estupiñán
Pervis Estupiñán has been a revelation since joining Brighton, quickly establishing himself as one of the most dynamic full-backs in the Premier League. His pace, ability to join attacks, and solid defensive skills make him indispensable. Estupiñán’s overlapping runs and crossing ability are crucial to Brighton’s attacking play, especially against teams that sit deep.
Center-Back: Lewis Dunk
The heart and soul of Brighton’s defense, Lewis Dunk remains an ever-present figure in the lineup. His leadership, experience, and defensive reliability are key to Brighton’s solidity at the back. Dunk’s passing range is also vital, often initiating attacks from deep positions. As the captain, Dunk’s influence extends beyond just his on-field contributions, making him an automatic selection when fit.
Center-Back: Jan Paul van Hecke
Jan Paul van Hecke has earned his place in the starting lineup through consistent performances. While Adam Webster has been a reliable option, van Hecke’s blend of physicality, intelligence, and aerial prowess gives him the edge. His ability to read the game and form a strong partnership with Dunk ensures a robust defensive pairing.
Right-Back: James Milner
The experienced James Milner, despite his age, brings versatility, experience, and leadership to Brighton’s squad. While Milner is naturally a midfielder, his adaptability allows him to fill in at right-back effectively. His presence on the right side offers defensive stability and tactical intelligence, which complements Brighton’s younger and more adventurous players. Milner’s experience is also invaluable in high-pressure situations, providing a calming influence on the pitch.
Midfield: Moisés Caicedo, Pascal Gross, and Mahmoud Dahoud
Defensive Midfield: Moisés Caicedo
Brighton’s £125 million transfer budget has allowed them to keep hold of one of their most prized assets, Moisés Caicedo. The Ecuadorian international is a dynamic midfielder known for his energy, tackling, and ability to break up play. Caicedo’s relentless work rate and defensive awareness provide the perfect shield for the backline while also allowing Brighton to maintain possession and control the tempo of games.
Central Midfield: Pascal Gross
Pascal Gross has been one of Brighton’s most consistent performers, offering creativity, set-piece prowess, and versatility. His intelligence on the ball and ability to find pockets of space make him a vital component of Brighton’s midfield. Gross’s experience and vision allow him to orchestrate play from deeper positions, making him an ideal partner for Caicedo.
Attacking Midfield: Mahmoud Dahoud
Mahmoud Dahoud, a new addition to the squad, brings a blend of technical skill, vision, and dribbling ability. Signed from Borussia Dortmund, Dahoud is expected to add an extra layer of creativity and flair to Brighton’s midfield. His ability to link midfield and attack, along with his knack for playing incisive passes, will be crucial in breaking down stubborn defenses. Dahoud’s presence in the midfield allows Gross to operate slightly deeper, facilitating Brighton’s ball progression.
Attack: Kaoru Mitoma, João Pedro, and Solly March
Left Wing: Kaoru Mitoma
Kaoru Mitoma has been a revelation for Brighton, dazzling fans with his pace, dribbling, and goal-scoring ability. The Japanese winger’s ability to take on defenders and create chances makes him one of the first names on the team sheet. Mitoma’s directness and flair provide a constant threat from the left wing, making him a nightmare for opposition defenders.
Striker: João Pedro
The marquee signing of the summer, João Pedro, arrives with a lot of expectations. The Brazilian forward is versatile, capable of playing across the front line, but is most effective as a central striker. João Pedro’s combination of technical skill, finishing ability, and movement off the ball makes him a perfect fit for De Zerbi’s system. His ability to drop deep, link play, and also stretch defenses with his runs will be key to unlocking opposition defenses.
Right Wing: Solly March
Solly March has evolved into a critical player for Brighton under De Zerbi. Operating primarily on the right wing, March’s work rate, crossing ability, and eye for goal make him a constant threat. His understanding with Milner on the right side adds balance to Brighton’s attack, allowing them to be dangerous on both flanks. March’s versatility also allows him to drift inside and create space for overlapping runs from the full-backs.
Brighton’s best starting lineup, bolstered by £125 million in fresh talent, is a blend of experience, youth, and tactical versatility. With a strong defense anchored by Lewis Dunk, a dynamic midfield led by Moisés Caicedo, and a potent attack featuring João Pedro, Brighton are well-equipped to compete at the highest level in the Premier League. This lineup reflects De Zerbi’s footballing philosophy, emphasizing possession, creativity, and high-intensity pressing, making Brighton a team to watch in the upcoming season.
