Now that FC Bayern’s managers no longer have a chance with Xabi Alonso in their search for a coach, Roberto De Zerbi is moving further into the spotlight. The Brighton coach now comments on his future.
Roberto De Zerbi of Brighton & Hove Albion is considered a hot coaching candidate at FC Bayern following the cancellation of preferred coach Xabi Alonso.
Before his team’s match against Liverpool FC (1:2) in the Premier League, De Zerbi did not want to rule out a departure from the Seagulls. When asked whether he would currently like to extend his contract, the 44-year-old answered clearly: „Not at the moment.“
After the game on Sunday, De Zerbi continued: „I have a contract for two more years. I don’t have to extend my contract to work at Brighton next season. I can stay here and work at Brighton without an extension. Nothing has changed.“
The coach’s contract at Brighton runs until the summer of 2026, but he will be able to leave the club after the current season for around €14 million thanks to an exit clause.
De Zerbi: „Then I can no longer stay here“
Before the game against Liverpool, De Zerbi had also said: „For now, we’ll end the discussion about my contract. Not because I’ve already decided to leave – my focus this season is on Brighton. But before next season starts, I would like to hear the plan for the team.“
He announced a conversation with Brighton’s club boss: „I will talk to Tony Bloom about the plans for next season and then I will decide. I want to keep my ambition.“
Sounds like a new job could certainly appeal to the coach. Could he be drawn to Munich?
De Zerbi also explained that he „lives for football 24 hours a day and wants to know what the plan, the project and the future is. If I don’t feel the right motivation, then I can no longer stay here.“