Fabian Hurzeler Urges Georginio Rutter to Embrace New Role

Head coach Fabian Hurzeler has called on Georginio Rutter to step up following the departure of former teammate Joao Pedro from Brighton & Hove Albion. The Brazilian forward was sold to Chelsea for £60 million this summer, leaving Rutter with increased expectations as he looks to find his form in the current season.

During a press conference ahead of Brighton’s upcoming match against Leeds United at the Amex Stadium on Saturday, Hurzeler addressed Rutter’s slow start to the season. Rutter has yet to score, recording three assists in eight league appearances. Hurzeler acknowledged that Joao’s exit has put the spotlight on Rutter, stating, “When you lose one of your best players, other players have to step up. Georgi is the next one in this position, so for sure there might be a little bit more attention on him, more focus, more responsibility.”

Rutter, 23, previously showed promise in the last season, contributing eight goals and five assists in 34 matches across all competitions before an ankle injury sidelined him in March 2024. Hurzeler emphasized that while scoring and assists are important, Rutter’s overall contribution and ability to support his teammates are what truly matter.

“He will never get judged by me on scoring and making assists,” Hurzeler remarked. “Last season he scored a good amount of goals, made a good amount of assists. It was a top season for him, and therefore we try to give him the support he needs.” He added that Rutter should focus on how he can help his team during games and influence small actions that can lead to success.

Brighton currently sits above Leeds in the league standings, holding the 13th position with a one-point lead and remaining unbeaten at home for eight matches since a 3-0 defeat to Aston Villa in April 2024. As Rutter prepares for the match against Leeds, the pressure will be on him to deliver a performance that meets the expectations set by his coach and fans alike.

Hurzeler’s confidence in Rutter’s abilities suggests a belief that hard work will eventually lead to a resurgence in form for the Frenchman. “I am 100 percent sure that hard work will pay off,” he said, reinforcing his commitment to supporting Rutter’s growth as a player.