Injuries are starting to build-up for De Zerbi as Solly March and Danny Welbeck are the latest to add to the walking wounded ahead of a hectic fixture schedule.
“I think we can lose Solly March for a long time and Welbeck, I don't know, it's a muscular problem,” De Zerbi said. "We are losing too many players. I think we are not ready to compete in this competition, and we are adapting."
Brighton have a history of selling their top talents in recent seasons. It’s certainly a model that has helped them progress financially and enabled them compete in the Premier League – but this season in-particular it seems to have slowed down the team-building process as they juggle the Premier League with the Europa League.
Here we take a look at Albion’s brilliant starting XI IF they had not sold their top talents in recent seasons...
5. Dan Burn - CB
Enjoyed a good spell with Brighton under previous boss Graham Potter and moved to Newcastle in 2022 for around £13m. A top player and enjoying his time and thriving at his boyhood club. Photo: OLI SCARFF
6. Marc Cucurella - LB
The Spain ace enjoyed one great season with Albion and then moved to Chelsea for a whopping £63m. Struggled a bit a Stamford Bridge but now starting to show his class. Photo: David Price
7. Yves Bissouma - CM
The midfield powerhouse joined Tottenham for around £30m. Injuries and Antonio Conte's selection hindered his first season but he looks to be settling in well under Ange Postecoglou. Photo: Henry Browne
8. Moises Caicedo - CM
The player Brighton miss the most. An excellent midfielder and plays his role so well. Joined Chelsea for £115m and will likely be one of the best defensive midfielders in the world for many years to come. Photo: JUSTIN TALLIS