Young winger Nehemiah Oriola has committed his future to Brighton & Hove Albion, signing a new contract that will keep him at the club until June 2029.
The 19-year-old arrived from Manchester United in 2023 after previous academy spells with West Ham United and United. Since joining Brighton, Oriola has developed steadily, earning his senior Premier League debut under manager Fabian Hurzeler against Leeds United in November last year.
Technical director Mike Cave praised the teenager’s growth, saying Oriola has consistently impressed during his time at the club and deserved his first-team opportunity. He added that Brighton believes the winger has significant potential and looks forward to supporting his continued development.
Oriola also enjoyed an outstanding campaign with Brighton’s development side, making his Premier League 2 debut in March 2025 before registering eight goals and four assists as the Seagulls won both the PL2 title and the Hong Kong Soccer Sevens.
Speaking last October, Hurzeler described Oriola as an “unbelievable talent,” highlighting his excellent performances in training, strong one-on-one ability, quality left foot, and impressive work rate after losing possession. The Brighton boss also praised how quickly the youngster has adapted to the demands of the first-team environment.
Competition for places on the right wing remains fierce. Yankuba Minteh is currently the first-choice option, while Brajan Gruda has returned from his loan spell at RB Leipzig and hopes to challenge for minutes if he stays. Facundo Buonanotte is also in contention despite difficult loan spells with Chelsea and Leeds United last season.
Meanwhile, Amario Cozier-Duberry has strengthened his case after an impressive loan at Bolton Wanderers, although West Ham United are reportedly monitoring him. Academy graduate Harry Howell is another player hoping to break into the senior squad.
With Brighton set to compete in the UEFA Conference League next season, additional opportunities are expected to become available. Strong performances during pre-season could prove decisive, and Oriola now appears well placed to compete for a bigger role in Hurzeler’s first-team plans.
