Fabian Hurzeler Sends Ibrahim Osman Message as Brighton Face Double Injury Setback
Brighton & Hove Albion manager Fabian Hurzeler has suggested that Ibrahim Osman could have a major opportunity to establish himself at the club this season following injuries to two key wingers.
The 21-year-old Ghana international has impressed during Brighton’s pre-season campaign, producing a lively second-half performance in the Seagulls’ 3-0 friendly victory over Roma last weekend.
Brighton signed Osman from Nordsjælland in 2024 for a fee believed to be around £16 million. Despite being under contract until 2029, the winger is still waiting to make his competitive debut for the club after spending time on loan with Feyenoord, Auxerre and Birmingham.
Hurzeler admitted he has been impressed by what he has seen from Osman so far but is keeping his options open regarding the youngster’s future this summer.
“I’m also impressed by him so far,” Hurzeler said after the Roma victory. “Let’s see how things continue and then we’ll make the best decision for him and for the club. Overall, I’m really happy with him.”
Osman Could Be Handed a Big Opportunity
The situation on Brighton’s wings could give Osman a genuine chance to break into the first-team picture.
First-choice winger Kaoru Mitoma is currently recovering from a hamstring problem and is expected to miss the beginning of the new season. Yankuba Minteh has also become an injury concern after being forced off during the second half against Roma.
Minteh appeared uncomfortable as he left the pitch, with Hurzeler confirming that the player would undergo scans and further assessment. His availability for the start of the campaign is now uncertain.
While the injuries represent a setback for Brighton, they could provide Osman with the opening he needs to convince Hurzeler that he deserves a regular role.
Brighton Have Plenty of Young Options
Osman is not the only young winger competing for an opportunity.
Tommy Watson is currently set to spend the season on loan at Leicester, while Amario Cozier-Duberry will also be hoping to make an impression after an impressive League One loan spell with Bolton last season.
Brighton have also invested more than £20 million in Nigerian winger Zadok Yohanna, who featured late in the Roma friendly. The youngster is reportedly firmly in Hurzeler’s plans as Brighton prepare for another season of Premier League football alongside their European campaign.
Academy graduate Harry Howell provides another option on the flanks.
Verdict
Osman’s combination of pace, strength and direct attacking play could make him an intriguing option for Hurzeler this season.
After returning to pre-season in excellent physical condition, the Ghanaian winger appears ready to compete for his place. Brighton invested heavily in his potential when they signed him in 2024, and the upcoming campaign could finally be the one where supporters get to see exactly what Osman can offer.
With injuries creating uncertainty on the wings, the opportunity is now there for Osman to seize his chance.
