Fabian Hürzeler had recently been considered a potential coaching candidate at Leverkusen, but that possibility is now off the table. The 33-year-old has extended his contract with Brighton early, through 2029.
Fabian Hürzeler’s original contract with Brighton & Hove Albion was set to expire in 2027, but on Thursday he extended his contract with the Premier League club early and long-term through 2029. This rules out a potential move to Leverkusen. At Bayer Leverkusen, the 33-year-old was considered a potential candidate should Kasper Hjulmand leave the club at the end of the season.
Hürzeler has been the Seagulls’ manager since 2024, having joined the club from FC St. Pauli. In his first year, he narrowly missed out on European competition with Brighton; with 61 points, the club from the English south coast finished in 8th place. Things are going well this year as well; Brighton is in 8th place with 50 points and could even still qualify for the Europa League.
Things didn’t look that way a few months ago; in mid-February, Brighton was still in 14th place and had to look over its shoulder. However, six wins in nine games followed, and this recent run is likely what sealed the deal for Hürzeler’s new contract.
“Developed a clear playing identity”
“Since taking charge, Fabian has built on the progress the club has made in recent seasons through consistent performances on the pitch and developed a clear playing identity. This season, he has built on the foundations he laid in his first season, in which he led us to an impressive eighth-place finish. “During his time as head coach, the team has demonstrated resilience, intensity, and control,” club chairman Tony Bloom is quoted as saying.
Hürzeler himself says he “loves working for this club and living in this city more than anything, and I am very happy to have signed a new contract. “This long-term trust from the club is an honor for me and only strengthens my desire to successfully implement our shared long-term vision,” said the German. “From the very beginning, our focus has always been on creating an identity, developing the team, and raising our standards every day. I am proud of what we have achieved so far.”