Brighton & Hove Albion finds itself navigating challenges with the absence of key player Kaoru Mitoma. The Japanese left-winger has now missed nine consecutive league matches, including a recent 1-1 draw against West Ham United. Brighton’s head coach, Fabian Hurzeler, is actively adapting strategies to cope with Mitoma’s unavailability due to an ankle injury.
Mitoma’s Impact and Recovery
Mitoma, who joined Brighton from Kawasaki Frontale in 2021 for £3 million, is known for his ability to create scoring opportunities. He has contributed 21 goals and 18 assists in 94 league matches. In January, Brighton rejected a significant bid of £61 million from Saudi Arabia’s Al Nassr for the 28-year-old.
This season, Brighton currently sits seventh in the Premier League standings. This position is notable considering the departure of main goalscorer Joao Pedro to Chelsea and key midfielder Carlos Baleba’s inconsistent performances.
Coach Hurzeler’s Strategies Without Mitoma
Despite Mitoma’s absence, the team has achieved four wins, three draws, and two losses, scoring a total of 16 goals. Hurzeler’s approach has included various player reassignments. For instance:
- Yankuba Minteh has been shifted to the left flank.
- Paraguayan midfielder Diego Gomez has filled the left-wing position in multiple matches.
- Maxim De Cuyper, primarily a left-back, has also been deployed higher up the pitch.
These adjustments have shown mixed results, with De Cuyper scoring in a recent 2-0 victory over Nottingham Forest while struggling during a subsequent defeat to Aston Villa.
Recent Match Highlights
In the match against West Ham, Brighton sought to capitalize on Mitoma’s typical dribbling prowess to unlock the defense. The game saw a late equalizer from Georginio Rutter, marking a crucial moment for the forward, who had gone several matches without scoring.
Rutter’s performances have been under scrutiny, especially after the sale of Pedro. He acknowledged the pressure to deliver goals in the absence of established scorers.
Baleba’s Ongoing Struggles
Midfielder Carlos Baleba has faced difficulties this season, with his performance dipping after summer interest from Manchester United. Hurzeler has been proactive, substituting Baleba in several matches to boost creativity in midfield, particularly noted in the last match against West Ham.
Looking ahead, the future remains uncertain regarding Mitoma’s return, especially with upcoming fixtures against Liverpool, Arsenal, and Manchester City. Hurzeler hopes to reintegrate Mitoma soon, recognizing the urgency for the team’s success.
Conclusion
As Brighton continues to navigate the challenges posed by injuries and player transfers, the return of Kaoru Mitoma is crucial. His ability to disturb opposing defenses will be invaluable for Brighton’s strategy moving forward in the Premier League.
