'Hurzeler seems happy' - an 8/10 windowpublished at 12:53 BST 3 September
12:53 BST 3 September
Joe Sayers Fan writer
Image source, Getty Images
A busy transfer window for the Albion has finally come to a close, and perhaps the most important pieces of business have been retaining the main cogs of our well-oiled machine.
The high-profile departure of Joao Pedro was certainly difficult to take, especially given his upturn in form since joining Chelsea. However, with a bit of patience and time for our new arrivals to settle, his absence may not prove to be as obvious as feared.
One of the biggest stories throughout our window was Manchester United's pursuit of our midfield anchor, Carlos Baleba. Fabian Hurzeler's constant reassurance to the fans was certainly refreshing, and now that the window has shut, there is a sense of relief knowing he will be with us this year.
There were also a few concerns around Kaoru Mitoma's future, with fear that 2024-25 could have been his last with us. His dream of playing Champions League football is known by the club, yet once again he has shown professionalism and loyalty, staying committed to the club that brought him to the Premier League.
Of course, everyone wants to see their squad strengthened further wherever possible but, overall, we can be satisfied with how this window gone. The focus on bringing signings in early to allow them to bed into the squad was clear, and although we have only seen glimpses of our new recruits, those signs have certainly been encouraging.
Hurzeler seems happy with the options at his disposal, and the board clearly feels the squad is in the best possible shape.
With key players retained and promising additions waiting to make their mark, I would confidently rate this transfer window a solid 8/10.
O'Riley completes Marseille loanpublished at 09:38 BST 2 September
09:38 BST 2 September
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Brighton midfielder Matt O'Riley has completed a season-long loan to Ligue 1 side Marseille.
The 24-year-old joined the Seagulls from Celtic in August 2024 and has made 25 appearances for the club, scoring three goals.
Head coach Fabian Hurzeler said: "Matt has the opportunity to challenge himself at the highest level in France and in the Champions League.
"We have a lot of competition in the midfield positions, and while we see Matt's long-term future here with us, this gives him the potential of more game time."
The Denmark international will work under former Albion boss Roberto de Zerbi, who led Marseille to a second-place finish in Ligue 1 last season.