Brighton's Hurzeler Still Has Support Despite Losses

The 32-year-old manager retains backing from players and ownership despite a poor run of results.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Brighton & Hove Albion manager Fabian Hurzeler is facing increased scrutiny after a run of one win in 13 Premier League matches, but he still has the support of the club's players and ownership. Despite the poor results, Hurzeler has not lost the dressing room, and the team's performances have often been better than the results suggest. Brighton's owner, Tony Bloom, is focused on data and performance rather than external noise, and Hurzeler is expected to remain in charge at least until the end of the season.

Why it matters

Hurzeler's tenure has coincided with a dip in Brighton's previously impressive player recruitment track record, which has contributed to the team's struggles. The club has also lost key coaching and recruitment staff in recent seasons, further complicating Hurzeler's task. However, the owner's data-driven approach and the players' continued support suggest Hurzeler will be given time to turn the team's fortunes around.

The details

Brighton have fallen to 14th in the Premier League table after a run of six defeats in 13 matches, but the manner of their latest loss at Aston Villa was in contrast to the previous defeat at home to Crystal Palace. While the home fans booed and chanted against Hurzeler after the Palace game, the away supporters at Villa Park applauded the team and manager. Brighton were unlucky not to earn a draw, with Ferdi Kadioglu hitting the crossbar in the second half. Hurzeler has not lost the support of the dressing room, and the team's struggles have been due to missed chances, individual errors, and failing to see out games from winning positions.

  • Brighton lost 1-0 at Aston Villa on February 12, 2026.
  • Brighton lost 1-0 at home to Crystal Palace on February 5, 2026.
  • Brighton won 2-1 at Trafford in the FA Cup in January 2026, setting up a fourth-round tie against Liverpool.
  • Brighton lost 2-0 at Liverpool in December 2025.

The players

Fabian Hurzeler

The 32-year-old manager of Brighton & Hove Albion, who is facing increased scrutiny but retains the support of the club's players and ownership.

Lewis Dunk

The long-serving captain of Brighton, who was the subject of interest from Nottingham Forest in the January transfer window but decided to stay with the club.

Tony Bloom

The owner and chairman of Brighton & Hove Albion, who is driven by data and performance rather than external noise when it comes to shaping the club's future.

Tyrone Mings

The Aston Villa defender whose 86th-minute header resulted in an own goal that gave Villa a 1-0 win over Brighton.

Ferdi Kadioglu

The Brighton midfielder who hit the crossbar in the second half of the team's 1-0 loss at Aston Villa.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.