Just in:Brighton cheif execution Paul Barber talks about De Zerbi Future

Brighton cheif execution Paul Barber talks about  De Zerbi Future 

Brighton’s CEO, Paul Barber, acknowledges that facing Roma in the Europa League Round of 16 will pose a

challenge and emphasizes the club’s confidence in retaining Roberto De Zerbi for the 2024-25 season.

The Seagulls have been paired with Roma in the Europa League Round of 16,

with the first leg scheduled at the Stadio Olimpico on March 7 and the return leg in England on March 14.

In an interview with BBC Radio Sussex, Brighton’s director, Paul Barber,

remarked, “When considering some of the names in the draw, such as Milan or Leverkusen and other prominent

European clubs, we’re fortunate that we avoided some of them in this round. It’s exciting to have another significant match to look forward to and to visit a

major city. For our fans who have already traveled to Amsterdam, Athens, and Marseille, this adds another notable destination to their European journey.”

“We understand it will be a challenging match; reaching the Europa League Round of 16 means there are no easy opponents. This is a fixture everyone is eagerly anticipating.”

Barber also addressed the speculation surrounding Italian coach De Zerbi’s future, who has been linked with a potential move away at the season’s end.

The former Sassuolo coach is reportedly on the radar of Liverpool, Bayern Munich, and Barcelona, as per various credible sources.

“We are keen for Roberto to remain with us for as long as he can because he is performing exceptionally well,” emphasized the Brighton director.

“It’s evident that when someone excels in their role, they attract interest from bigger clubs competing in higher-level competitions. However, as we

consistently operate in the Premier League’s top six or seven, advance to the Europa League Round of 16, and remain

contenders in the FA Cup, we believe we offer an appealing package for individuals to continue working with us.

“We need to move away from the perception that we’re merely a stepping stone for larger clubs, whether it’s

regarding players, coaches, or staff. The reality is that we are performing well. While we remain humble and mindful of

our journey, we have many positive aspects. I am confident that these factors attract talented individuals to join us and remain part of our team.”

De Zerbi’s Brighton contract, which expires in June 2026, includes a €13 million release clause. Since his

appointment in September 2022, the 44-year-old coach has overseen 74 games at Brighton, winning 35 of them in the Premier League.

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