EXCLUSIVE: Fabian Hürzeler Announces Retirement from Brighton – Leaves Door Open for Return
Brighton & Hove Albion, JUNE 21, 2025 – In a surprising and emotional press conference on Friday, Brighton’s record-breaking head coach, Fabian Hürzeler, officially announced his retirement from football management, citing a desire to focus on his well‑being and family health.
Following a gruelling season which saw Brighton claim an historic 8th‑place Premier League finish and reach the FA Cup quarter‑finals, the 32‑year‑old German—widely celebrated for his tactical intelligence—revealed he has endured ongoing stress-related health concerns stemming from the relentless demands of elite coaching.
“This has been the hardest decision of my life,” Hürzeler told assembled press. “Every single day has been a privilege with Brighton, but now I need to step back, pause, and recover.”
Despite his retirement, Hürzeler emphasized he’s not shutting the door on a future return to the sidelines. He expressed openness to resuming duties if conditions shift, particularly under Brighton’s popular new wage‑structure agreement and improved team support systems.
Club chairman Tony Bloom praised Hürzeler’s legacy:
“Under Fabian, we saw the best league finish in our history. His methodical yet progressive approach has transformed our identity,” said Bloom. “We fully support his health-first decision and would welcome him back under the right circumstances.”
Brighton’s board has launched an internal review of its coaching support framework, including enhanced mental health provisions and workload protections, part of a wider strategy aimed at sustaining managerial excellence while safeguarding well‑being.
Sources inside the club suggest a shortlist is being prepared, with an interim internal appointment likely while the board assesses the support overhaul. Meanwhile, Hürzeler’s statement sparked an outpouring of support from fans, former players, and coaching colleagues—especially those at FC St. Pauli and Bayern’s youth academy—who highlighted his professionalism and breakthrough status as the youngest permanent manager in Premier League history.
Looking ahead, Brighton might institute a contract clause allowing Hürzeler to return under redesigned health and workload parameters—ensuring this chapter remains “for now,” not forever.