Brighton and Hove Albion and their fans can now sit back and take a breathe after a memorable and historic season. It started with the sale of key players Moises Caicedo and Alexis Mac Allister, swiftly followed a pre-season tour on the east coast of America. Albion were then off to a blistering start in the Premier League and then enjoyed their first ever European nights in Marseille, Ajax and Athens. Albion’s season then spiralled after a humbling night in Rome. It saw Roberto De Zerbi’s mood change which ultimately saw the club and the head coach part ways following the final match of the season against Man United at the Amex Stadium last Sunday. Here’s 15 things I learned following the Albion this term...
13. Lewis Dunk
The skipper remains Brighton's most important player and deservedly earned his England call-up for Euro 2024 this summer. Made a couple of errors in Rome for Brighton and in a friendly against Belgium for England but another solid season. He will be key for Brighton going forward under the new manager - whoever that maybe. Photo: Charlie Crowhurst
14. Pedro power
Brighton's Brazilian striker scored 20 goals in all competitions which is a decent return for Brighton's record signing. Brighton don't spend that big too often but they did and they received value for money from Pedro. Aged just 22, he has plenty of time to improve and perhaps more importantly for Brighton, increase his potential sell-on fee. His best is still to come for Brighton. Photo: GLYN KIRK
15. Young guns
The young talent arriving at Brighton does not seem to stop. Valentin Barco looks a real find and Carlos Baleba has the potential to be equal to or even more than a Bissouma or a Caicedo. Jack Hinshelwood should kick on after a fine breakthrough season, while Evan Ferguson and Julio Enciso still have much more to give. Goalkeeper Carl Rushworth is another who looks Premier League ready after his impressive loan at Swansea. Photo: Michael Steele
16. Pascal Gross
Hard to imagine where Brighton would have been without their player of the year. He steadied the ship in midfield after the exits of Mac Allister and Caicedo and chipped in with. His five goals and 13 assists is an impressive return and he was quite rightly included in Germany's squad for their home Euros. His future remains uncertain and Brighton will be keen to keep him - especially after losing the experience of Lallana Photo: Justin Setterfield