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Fabian Hürzeler: ‘
When I see myself on the sideline I sometimes think: are you crazy?’**
Brighton’s manager, Fabian Hürzeler, reflects on his unique journey to becoming the youngest permanent manager in
Premier League history. To truly appreciate his path, one must look back to 2016, when he took on the dual role of player-manager for Pipinsried, a club in Germany’s fifth tier. At just 23 years old, Hürzeler made the bold choice to leave his professional playing career behind to focus on coaching, a decision that came with its own set of challenges.
During this transitional period, he found himself struggling financially and took a job with an art dealer in Munich. “When I sold one picture or painting in a month, I was done,” he recalls. This job allowed him to immerse himself in football, as he spent much of his time watching games. However, this passion for the sport ultimately led to his dismissal from the art dealership. “The owner noticed that I was watching more football during work hours instead of focusing on sales, and we weren’t selling any more paintings,” he admits. Despite the setback, Hürzeler views that time as beneficial for his development.
As he navigates his role at Brighton, Hürzeler’s youthful energy and understanding of the game resonate with his players, creating a unique dynamic on the sidelines.
Question 1: What was Fabian Hürzeler's role before becoming the manager of Brighton?
Fabian Hürzeler was the player-manager of the German fifth-tier side Pipinsried before taking on the managerial role at Brighton.
Question 2: Why did Hürzeler start working for an art dealer?
Hürzeler started working for an art dealer in Munich to make ends meet after he decided to give up his professional playing career at the age of 23 to focus on coaching.
Question 3: What impact did his job at the art dealer have on his football career?
While working for the art dealer, Hürzeler spent a lot of time watching football games, which contributed to his development as a coach, although it ultimately led to him being fired for not selling enough paintings.
Question 4: How does Hürzeler's age benefit his relationship with his players?
Being as young as his players helps Hürzeler relate to them better, fostering a more connected and understanding environment within the team.
Question 5: What does Hürzeler reflect on when he sees himself on the sideline?
Hürzeler sometimes questions his own decisions and experiences a moment of disbelief, wondering if he is crazy for being in such a high-pressure role at a young age.