Two days after the shock announcement that Roberto De Zerbi will leave Brighton at the end of the season, the manager has clarified his future plans.
The Italian managed his final game for the Seagulls in their defeat to Manchester United on Sunday, after announcing his departure one day prior.
There had been thoughts he could take over at Bayern Munich, though that has been denied, with the Bundesliga club’s sporting director confirmed their new boss won’t be from Italy, leaving their future uncertain.
He was also linked with Barcelona as a replacement for Xavi before his U-turn to continue at the Catalan giants until the end of his contract in June 2025.
De Zerbi’s contract was not due to expire until the summer of 2026, yet the club and the coach reached a mutual agreement, with Brighton’s Chairman Tony Bloom saying that they decided to end the deal ‘at a time that suits both parties.’
Roberto De Zerbi revealed he would like to work in the Premier League again after leaving Brighton
The Italian coach had his final game for Brighton in an unfortunate 2-0 loss against Man United
As quoted by BBC Sport, despite being highly valued in Germany, Spain and Italy, the manager wishes to continue competing in the Premier League
‘There isn’t any club – no-one offered [anything]. At the moment, nothing,’ De Zerbi said during a post-game interview for Match of the Day.
‘I hope to work in the Premier League again. I don’t know where or when. But it was an honour to work in the Premier League.’
The former Sassuolo boss said he is very thankful to his club despite not reaching ‘the agreement to move on.’
‘I want to keep my way. I know very well what I want to do and I know I am a coach and I have to accept the policies of the club.’
‘They gave me an incredible chance. They give me the possibility to know incredible people, to play and to work in the Premier League, to play in the Europa League.’
‘They gave me the opportunity to know this club, this city, these fans and for that I cannot forget.’
Brighton’s Adam Lallana, who is also leaving the club, says de Zerbi was ‘the gold dust on top’
He said he is thankful to the club and fans despite not reaching a future agreement with Tony Bloom (pictured)
His Premier League interest could lead him to a managerial job at Chelsea or Manchester United, whose coaches are reportedly at risk.
De Zerbi led his team to the 6th place last season but had a less successful 2023-24 campaign, finishing only 11th.
Brighton reached the quarterfinals of the Europa League, where they were knocked out 4-1 on aggregate against Italian side Roma.
