Alious
Brighton forward Yankuba Minteh has offered a refreshingly frank reflection on the club’s recent campaign, admitting it was painful to fall short of European qualification and calling on the club to strengthen key areas ahead of next season.
The 20-year-old Gambian international joined Brighton from Newcastle for £30 million and made an immediate impact in his debut Premier League season, netting six goals and supplying four assists. Despite his individual progress, the Seagulls narrowly missed out on a return to European football, finishing eighth in the table—a result that left Minteh and his teammates disappointed.
Speaking with *SportsBoom*, Minteh described the campaign as one filled with highs and lows. *“I’d say it was a mixed season,”* he admitted. *“We had some good performances and moments, but ultimately we didn’t achieve our goal. We wanted to build on the previous season and secure European football again. Missing out definitely stings, especially considering the talent we have in this squad.”*
He revealed that, as the season came to a close, the squad held internal discussions about finishing strong, but faltered at crucial moments. *“Everyone was frustrated. We talked about fighting to the finish, but we lost grip when it mattered most. That’s what hurts the most,”* he added.
Despite the disappointment, Minteh remains optimistic about the future. He praised the squad’s determination and acknowledged that the next step for Brighton is to return to continental competition. *“There’s real hunger in this group. We know we’re capable of playing in Europe—we just need to prove it,”* he said.
The season marked a period of transition for Brighton, with a number of new arrivals and the introduction of Fabian Hürzeler as head coach—the youngest permanent manager in Premier League history. According to Minteh, the club must now focus on tactical maturity and mental resilience if they are to progress.
*“We have to improve how we manage games, especially when we’re in front,”* he explained. *“And mentally, we need to be switched on in every match, not just the big ones. The manager has been stressing this a lot.”*
While Brighton boasts a deep midfield roster—featuring names like Carlos Baleba, Yasin Ayari, Matt O’Riley, and Diego Gomez—Minteh believes the team lacks a calming, authoritative presence in the middle of the park.
*“We could use a bit more depth in midfield, and someone who can really take control in high-pressure moments,”* he said. He also emphasized the need for an experienced forward to add tactical variety and leadership to the front line.
But more than anything, Minteh stressed the importance of mentality. *“This league demands more than just skill. You need players who’ll fight, who won’t shy away when things get tough. Without that hunger, you won’t last here,”* he stated firmly.
Looking ahead, Minteh is already focused on what lies ahead: *“We know we can do better. Next season, we come back with more strength, more sharpness, and something to prove.”*
Alious
