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Brighton set sights on major trophy and European breakthrough
29th September, 2026 06:52 PM
Brighton Hove and Albion are preparing for their Conference League campaign, which begins in mid-October 2026, as they make only the second European appearance in the club’s history.
After a promising start to the new campaign, the Seagulls are regarded as one of the teams capable of making a deep run in the competition, with some even backing them to lift the trophy.
Club owner Tony Bloom says Brighton are constantly working to improve their approach, particularly through the use of data and analytics.
“The methodologies that we use, the data and the analytics, we’re always looking to optimise that and improve our systems, and as every month and every year goes on, we do improve that.”
Bloom has made it clear that Brighton’s ambitions extend beyond simply participating in Europe, with the club targeting silverware.
Asked what would represent a successful campaign for the men’s side, he said the club is aiming to win a major trophy while also competing strongly in the Premier League.
“We’re after a major trophy so obviously any major trophy would be a massive achievement for the football club. The Premier League is the bread and butter and we’re really optimistic that we can at least finish in the European places if not a bit higher than that. ” He said.
Faith in the coach
On matters coaching, the Brighton owner believes his manager Fabian Hurzeler has all that it takes to steer the team forward: “I have huge confidence in Fabian [Hurzeler, head coach] and our group of players. As you say, we had 10 players out for most of August, so we’ve got some key players coming back, with some expected to return after the international break.”
He added: “It’s very early to start predicting anything, but as Fabian always says, we’ve got to get the process right. We’ve got to prepare properly and always look to improve in every aspect of what we do. If we consistently do that, we have a very good chance of having a successful season.”
“He’s had to cope with lots of different situations in each of the two seasons, including a couple of bad runs when there would have been pressure on him. There’s always pressure on elite head coaches at elite football clubs in elite football leagues, but he’s come through both those situations extremely well.
“We, as a club, have helped him where we can, but he has had to do most of it himself. He’s brought the players through with him and, now in his third year, he’s gaining a huge amount of experience. I expect him to go from strength to strength.” He said.
In their last Premier League outing, Brighton stunned defending champions Arsenal 3-0 at the Amex before the international break.
