Reviewing 2025/26

They've never had household names at the Amex. No stars that were leaps and bounds above the rest. They're just a solid group of hard working individuals. Some of whom happen to be supremely talented, don't get me wrong, but they haven't been out and splashed £80m on a star signing. The way they operate is just incredibly impressive.

After an indifferent start, Danny Welbeck top scored with 13 goals and the Seagulls found form towards the end coming to rest in 8th place. Qualifying for the Euorpa Conference League in the process.

Looking ahead to 2026/27

What a project Tony Bloom and co are running down on the South Coast. Another comfortable top half finish last season will be followed by another push for European spots in my opinion. They just seem solid and stable all over and always have a plan for players leaving.

The loss of Jan Paul van Hecke would be felt far more if they hadn't already brought in Croatian World Cup defender Luka Vuskovic. It remains to be seen who replaces Danny Welbeck but the additions of Zadok Yohanna and Costinha for a combined £35m proves they're showing no signs of slowing down. Pascal Struijk is a shrewd addition too, arriving from Leeds with plenty of Premier League experience.

Court Offside Tip

The epitomy of consistency. And I think they'll be consistent again. It's tough to predict them to reach European football qualification again but I like the look of 8/11 on them to finish above Newcastle. Given the turbulent summer at St James', I think that's buying money.