Brighton owner Tony Bloom, a lifelong fan of the club, is beaming with pride and excitement as his beloved team embarks on their inaugural European campaign. The Seagulls are set to kick off their Europa League journey with a clash against AEK Athens on September 21, a momentous occasion that has stirred a whirlwind of emotions for Bloom.
Speaking with BBC Radio Sussex Sport, Bloom expressed his anticipation, saying, “When the game kicks off, the emotions will be very high.” Yet, this game is just a fraction of the remarkable journey that Brighton has undertaken. Considering the club’s near brush with extinction in the late 1990s, their European adventure is nothing short of astounding.
Bloom has a heartfelt message for the fans: “I would tell the fans to enjoy the fact we are in Europe for the first time, enjoy the occasion, be in the moment and hopefully the players will give them lots of moments to enjoy, in the Premier League and in Europe.”
The Europa League group stage promises thrilling encounters, including clashes with prestigious past European Cup winners Ajax and Marseille. It’s a testament to Brighton’s resilience and progress over the years.
One of the standout developments during Brighton’s European journey is the appointment of Roberto de Zerbi as the manager. Bloom, who confirmed that the club’s meticulous planning enabled them to swiftly react when Chelsea pursued Graham Potter, couldn’t help but express his admiration for De Zerbi’s impact.
“He has been pretty amazing,” Bloom remarked. “His track record, when we looked into it in a lot of detail, was exceptionally good.” However, it’s De Zerbi’s unanticipated influence on the team that has left Bloom pleasantly surprised. De Zerbi’s coaching prowess and tactical acumen have breathed new life into the squad, pushing them to reach their full potential.
“The quality of the play and the risk-taking at the right times to create opportunities for the players to create chances and his tactical abilities are superb,” Bloom praised. “He pushes everyone to go as far as they can. We are very fortunate to have him at the club. We love having him here. Long may that continue.”
Additionally, the AEK Athens clash could witness the home debut of Ansu Fati, a signing that has sent shockwaves through Brighton. Fati, often hailed as the heir to Lionel Messi, arrived from Barcelona on loan until the end of the season. His potential is nothing short of sensational, and he was even entrusted with Messi’s iconic number 10 shirt when the Argentine superstar left for Paris St-Germain in 2021.
Bloom shared his excitement about Fati’s late acquisition, saying, “It wasn’t one we had really talked about much until the last few days of the window, but when we heard about it, Roberto was really keen and I was extremely excited.” Securing Fati’s services is a testament to Brighton’s growing stature, as he was once considered the best young player in the world.
As Brighton’s European journey unfolds and with exciting signings like Ansu Fati, Tony Bloom’s dreams for the club continue to flourish, leaving fans and supporters eager for what the future holds.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Tony Bloom Brighton European Debut
Q: Who is Tony Bloom, and why is he excited about Brighton’s upcoming European campaign?
A: Tony Bloom is the owner of Brighton & Hove Albion football club. He’s excited about the club’s first-ever European campaign in the Europa League, as it marks a significant milestone in the club’s history.
Q: What has been the key to Brighton’s success in making it to the Europa League?
A: Brighton’s success in reaching the Europa League can be attributed to strategic planning and the appointment of manager Roberto de Zerbi, who has had a transformative impact on the team’s performance.
Q: Can you tell me more about Roberto de Zerbi’s influence on Brighton?
A: Roberto de Zerbi, Brighton’s manager, has impressed Tony Bloom with his exceptional track record, tactical abilities, and his knack for improving players. His coaching style has elevated the team’s quality of play.
Q: Who is Ansu Fati, and why is his signing significant for Brighton?
A: Ansu Fati is a highly regarded Spanish footballer often seen as the successor to Lionel Messi. His signing by Brighton is significant because it brings immense talent and excitement to the club’s roster.
Q: How did Brighton manage to secure Ansu Fati’s loan from Barcelona?
A: Brighton secured Ansu Fati’s loan from Barcelona in the final days of the transfer window. The decision was influenced by manager Roberto de Zerbi’s keen interest in Fati’s potential and the club’s commitment to strengthening its squad.
Q: What message does Tony Bloom have for Brighton fans as they enter their first European campaign?
A: Tony Bloom’s message to fans is to savor the historic moment, enjoy the occasion, and be in the moment as Brighton enters European competition for the first time. He hopes the players will provide plenty of memorable moments for fans in both the Premier League and Europe.
More about Tony Bloom Brighton European Debut
- BBC Sport: Tony Bloom on Brighton’s European Excitement
- Brighton & Hove Albion Official Website
- Roberto de Zerbi’s Managerial Profile
- Ansu Fati’s Profile
5 comments
Ansu Fati’s transfer is huge 4 Brighton, gud 4 de club!
Fati’s a big deal, man! lik Messi’s successor, dat’s somethin’.
wow, Bloom’s pumped ’bout Brighton’s Europe trip! must b a big deal 4 em.
Love Tony Bloom’s passion! Our Europa journey is epic!
cool, I wanna kno more bout this Roberto De Zerbi dude, sounds impt.