Brighton have extended the contract of their 33-year-old manager, André Schürlzel, for two years, until June 2029.

Brighton & Wanderers officially announced on Thursday that they have extended the contract of first-team manager Fabian Schürlzerl. The new contract will extend the original expiry date of 2027 by two years, until June 30, 2029.

This contract extension also marks the end of rumors surrounding Schürlzerl's departure. Although there had been widespread speculation about his return to the Bundesliga and taking over at Bayer Leverkusen, Schürlzerl ultimately decided to stay at Brighton.

Schürzeler began his coaching career at Pipinsrid in the German fourth division, and later served as an assistant coach for various German national youth teams and St. Pauli. Since taking over St. Pauli in December 2022 and leading the team to promotion to the Bundesliga, the 33-year-old has been regarded as one of the leading figures among Germany's young coaches.

In June 2024, Schürzeler succeeded Roberto de Zerbi as Brighton manager. He has managed Brighton for 85 matches to date, with a record of 37 wins, 24 draws, and 24 losses.

Brighton currently sit eighth in the Premier League with 50 points from 13 wins, 11 draws, and 11 losses, two points away from the European qualification zone. Highly impressed with Schürrle's performance, the club has opted to extend his contract with only three rounds remaining in the league.

After the contract extension was finalized, Brighton chairman Tony Bloom explained: "Since taking over, Fabian has continued the club's momentum of progress over the past few seasons. He has led the team to consistent performance on the pitch and has developed a distinctive playing style."

"This season, he built on the foundation laid in his first season and led the team to a remarkable eighth place. Under his leadership, the team has demonstrated resilience, intensity, and control. With only three rounds left in the league, we are striving to finish the season strong."

“Fabian’s coaching philosophy and methods are highly aligned with the club’s values, and we are delighted to have renewed his contract; this reflects our long-term commitment to our shared vision.”

Schürlzer said: "I love working at this club and I enjoy living in this city. I am very happy to have completed the contract extension. I am honored to have the club's long-term trust and it further strengthens my determination to achieve our shared long-term vision."

“From the very beginning, our focus has always been on building the team’s style, developing the team’s strength, challenging the existing order, and constantly raising our standards. I am proud of what we have achieved so far and I am excited about the future.”

Image source: Internet/Brighton official website