Brighton’s First Season in Europe: De Zerbi Questions Readiness
Brighton’s debut season in European competition has not gone according to plan, and manager Roberto De Zerbi is questioning the team’s readiness for such a challenge. The club’s struggles in coping with the additional matches, coupled with ongoing injury problems, were evident in their recent 4-0 defeat against Roma in the Europa League.
De Zerbi believes that the transition from playing one game per week to three games per week is like a different sport altogether. He had repeatedly emphasized this point in press conferences earlier in the season, highlighting the need for better organization and preparation. Unfortunately, it seems that Brighton has not been able to meet these requirements.
“This season can be important for me, for the players, for the club. If we want to compete at this level, you have to organize. You cannot think like last season, or two seasons ago,” De Zerbi expressed. Playing in European competitions demands a different approach, from the number of players needed in the squad to the organization of medical staff and even the allocation of days off.
The defeat against Roma was a bitter pill to swallow for De Zerbi and the entire club. It serves as a painful reminder of the challenges they have faced and the improvements needed to compete at a high level. De Zerbi acknowledges that mistakes were made, particularly in his selection of players who were already fatigued due to excessive game time. He takes responsibility for these errors and calls for improvement from everyone involved with the club.
“All people who work in Brighton have to improve from this season,” De Zerbi admitted. He emphasizes that it is crucial to avoid similar situations in the future, where key players are overused and reach crucial moments of the season in poor condition. The manager acknowledges the difficulty of managing a squad with multiple injured players for an extended period, as it disrupts the team’s rhythm and consistency.
Looking ahead, De Zerbi is confident that Brighton will be better prepared for their next European campaign. He believes that the lessons learned from this season will contribute to a more organized and competitive approach in the future. The club’s current position in the Premier League, tenth place, is not ideal, but a victory against Nottingham Forest could propel them back into the top eight.
Brighton’s journey in Europe has been a challenging one, and De Zerbi’s frustrations are beginning to surface. The team’s ability to adapt and improve will determine their success in future European endeavors. It is a pivotal moment for the club, as they must decide whether they are ready to compete at a high level or settle for playing one game per week and enjoying leisure activities like golf on Wednesdays.
Brighton’s adventure in Europe has been a dark trip to the Eternal City for De Zerbi’s team and their dedicated fans. The disappointment of the defeat in Rome serves as a catalyst for change and growth. The club’s management and players must come together to address the issues and ensure they are better equipped for future European competitions. Brighton’s first season in Europe may not have gone as planned, but it serves as a valuable learning experience that will shape their future endeavors on the continental stage.