Following Brighton and Hove Albion’s 1-1 draw with Arsenal on Saturday, August 31, head coach Fabian Hurzeler expressed his trust and admiration for young midfielder Carlos Baleba’s performance.
Baleba, 20, was included in the starting lineup due to injuries and exits in the midfield, including Mats Wieffer and Matt O’Riley. Despite the challenging circumstances, the young player rose to the occasion, earning praise from his coach.
“I have a lot of trust in him, like with all the players,” Hurzeler said. “We have a big squad, and a lot of competition, so no one can rest. He has to be there, and I think young players can only improve by playing on the pitch, making experiences on the pitch. For Carlos, it was a great experience today, and he made a good game.”
Hurzeler’s comments highlight the importance of giving young players opportunities to develop and gain experience in high-pressure situations. Baleba’s performance against Arsenal demonstrates his potential and ability to contribute to the team’s success.
With Brighton facing a busy schedule of Premier League fixtures, Baleba’s emergence as a reliable midfielder will be crucial in helping the team navigate the challenges ahead.