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Brighton have established themselves as one of the most attractive teams to watch in the English Premier League. Their unique style of football has earned them praise from fans and pundits alike, as they continue to impress with their high-energy and attacking approach.
One of the Hallmarks of De Zerbi’s system is the team’s commitment to playing out from the back. Brighton’s defenders are comfortable on the ball and are encouraged to pass it around among themselves to create space and draw in the opposition. This patient approach allows Brighton to control the tempo of the game and build attacks from deep.
Unlike Sheffield United and Chris Wilder’s gimmicky system of wide attacking centre backs, that took using defenders as part of an attack far too literally; De Zerbi instead uses their passing ability and composure to draw both the forwards and offensive midfielders into higher positions. With just 1 pass through this high press, Brighton are able to put 5 opposing players out of position. This attack form the back philosophy is integral to the success Brighton has found in recent years, with De Zerbi having seemingly perfected this concept.
This high tempo system is a perfect foil to pressing teams. Its key weakness is its difficulty in breaking down teams happy to sit back, hence Brighton’s often lower scoring games against teams they might expect to beat on league position alone.
Of course it’s no surprise this build up play is successful with the defence used to a passing game from Potter’s impressive reign. The Seagulls’ attacking play is based on a fluid, interchangeable front three that can change positions at will. When it works, this dynamic and unpredictable off the ball movement causes overloads in the final third of the pitch, creating chances thanks to space behind and in between defenders for the forwards to exploit.
In midfield, Brighton boasts a hard-working and dynamic group of players who are comfortable both in possession and out of it. World Cup winner Alexis Macallister, has unsurprisingly been a standout performer this season, showcasing a range of passing and ability to break up opposition attacks.
Furthermore, Caicedo alongside him has been a more than worthy replacement for Yves Bissouma. The likes of Adam Lallana, Pascal Gross, and Joel Veltman provide a wealth of experience and tactical versatility. Whilst Mitoma looks to have filled the Trossard hole perfectly.
The Seagulls have developed a unique brand of football that is both entertaining to watch and effective on the pitch. While they may not have the same resources as some of the league’s bigger clubs, Brighton’s style of play has helped them to establish themselves as a force to be reckoned with in the Premier League.
The obvious question remains, can they Break into Europe? And how far can they go?
Brighton have been probing European qualification for years now, often thanks to pulling away from mid table thanks to a great start that dwindles around this time of year. With 3 games in hand and 4 points off Fulham and Liverpool (+2 games played), they look in good stead to make it, but a game in hand is only worth anything if they’re converted into 3 points. There’s still much to do, starting with winning against West Ham.
