Attacking Powerhouse: What Are Brighton’s Best Options in Attack?

After a busy summer transfer window, during which Brighton & Hove Albion spent £200 million, the club has significantly strengthened its squad, particularly in attack.

A large portion of their budget was invested in three key attacking signings: Georginio Rutter, Yankuba Minteh, and Brajan Gruda. These additions bring depth and competition to Brighton’s already talented forward line, which features players like Danny Welbeck, João Pedro, Evan Ferguson, Kaoru Mitoma, Simon Adingra, Julio Enciso, and Solly March.

Brighton had a solid goal tally of 72 in the 2022/23 Premier League season, but with injuries hampering key players, the need for extra firepower became clear. Now, with multiple options in every attacking position, who are Brighton’s top choices in each role?

Left Wingers

Brighton has two standout options on the left wing, both deserving of a starting spot.

1. Kaoru Mitoma
   Mitoma has started all five games this season and is clearly manager Fabian Hürzeler’s first choice. Known for his game-changing moments, his pace, and his dribbling skills, Mitoma remains a crucial player, even though he’s still regaining form after a long-term injury last season.
2. Simon Adingra
   Adingra, fresh off an impressive start to the season, brings immense impact from the bench. His speed, dribbling, and ability to exploit tired defenses make him a dangerous option, especially after defenders have already been tested by Mitoma.

Right Wingers

On the right, Brighton has three main options, though injuries have limited their availability early on.

1. Yankuba Minteh
   The 19-year-old summer signing had high expectations and delivered in his Premier League debut with an assist. Although inconsistent, which is expected from a young player, Minteh has already shown flashes of brilliance.
2. Brajan Gruda
   Another summer signing, Gruda is yet to play due to injury but is one of the most promising young talents in Germany. His dribbling, pace, and eye for goal will make him a strong competitor for the starting spot once fit.
3. Solly March
   Despite his excellent form before injury, March ranks third here. While Minteh and Gruda may fit better into Hürzeler’s system, March remains a valuable squad player who will get his opportunities once fully recovered.

Strikers

Brighton’s attacking options at striker are strong, with two key players vying for the starting role.

1. Danny Welbeck
   The experienced forward has had a blistering start to the season, scoring three goals and providing one assist in five matches. Welbeck’s intelligent movement, pace, and finishing ability make him undroppable at the moment.
2. Evan Ferguson
   Despite a long-term injury last season, Ferguson has returned strongly, as evidenced by his impressive Carabao Cup performance. The Irish forward has all the attributes of a top striker, but for now, he’ll need to work hard to unseat the in-form Welbeck.

Second Forwards

This role is crucial in Hürzeler’s system, and Brighton now has several strong options following their summer recruitment.

1. João Pedro
   Pedro is the obvious first choice, following an outstanding previous season with 15 goals and three assists. He’s vital to Brighton’s attacking play and has the ability to turn games in their favor.
2. Georginio Rutter
   A club-record £40 million signing, Rutter has shown glimpses of his quality in limited starts. His hold-up play, creative flair, and physical attributes make him a promising second striker, although he needs to improve his finishing.
3. Julio Enciso
   Enciso is a player with immense potential but needs to work on his consistency and decision-making. While capable of moments of brilliance, he sometimes holds onto the ball too long, leading to turnovers. With hard work, he could rise up the ranks, especially if Pedro’s injury sidelines him for an extended period.

With an abundance of talent across the front line, Brighton’s attacking options are stronger than ever, and it will be fascinating to see who cements their place in the starting lineup as the season progresses.