Report: Brighton Bid Farewell to Influential Midfielder | OneFootball

Adam Lallana Announces Departure from Brighton

Adam Lallana, the seasoned midfielder, has declared he will depart Brighton & Hove Albion at the season’s end, marking an end to a significant chapter in both his career and the club’s history.

Reflecting on a Remarkable Journey

Lallana joined Brighton in 2020 after a trophy-laden spell at Liverpool, bringing experience and leadership to the Seagulls. Over his tenure, he has made 105 appearances, including 94 in the Premier League, embodying the spirit and ambition of the club.

His decision comes after a period of contemplation about his future and personal life. Lallana expressed the need for reflection and time to assess his next steps. “I’ve been in talks with Roberto [de Zerbi] for the past couple of months and he expressed his wishes for me to stay and keep playing,” Lallana shared with BBC Radio Sussex.

However, the pull of family responsibilities has led him to prioritise his personal life over his professional commitments. “But after taking a bit of time to think about where the football club’s at, and myself having been away from my family for the past four years while I’ve been here, I just feel it’s the right time.”

Photo: IMAGO

Season of Highs Amid Challenges

Despite stepping back, Lallana’s contribution this season has been noteworthy, making 29 appearances. His involvement in Brighton’s European campaign was a highlight, adding a continental flavour to his already distinguished career in England. “The journey we’ve been on as a football club was remarkable and I was fortunate to be here this season during a European campaign,” he remarked, highlighting the club’s achievements and his personal experiences.

Family First: The Deciding Factor

Family considerations were central to Lallana’s decision, underscoring the often-overlooked personal sacrifices in professional sports. “I’ve been speaking to my family throughout the year and the biggest influence on my decision was that my kids needed me,” he explained, providing insight into the personal deliberations that affect many athletes’ careers.

Photo: IMAGO

Special Bond with De Zerbi

Lallana also touched on his relationship with Brighton’s manager, Roberto de Zerbi, whom he regards as more than just a coach. Describing De Zerbi as “an older brother,” Lallana found it challenging to communicate his decision to leave, a testament to their strong personal and professional bond. “That was probably the most difficult conversation, going in to see Roberto and tell him I’d decided to move on. The minute I said that my family was at the forefront of my decision, he totally understood,” said Lallana.

As he prepares to leave the Amex Stadium, Lallana is contemplative yet optimistic about continuing his playing career, suggesting there is more to come from him on the pitch. “I think I want to carry on playing – I still think there’s a little bit in the tank left. I just felt like it was the right time to leave Brighton,” he concluded, hopeful yet resolute in his decision to start a new chapter.

Adam Lallana’s time at Brighton may be drawing to a close, but his impact on the club and its supporters will not be forgotten. As he moves forward, the balance between his professional aspirations and personal life will continue to shape his path in the beautiful game.