A few months ago, the English press was excited about what it then called the new sensation of the Premier League. Evan Ferguson had just spent the last six months of the 2022/2023 season at the forefront of Brighton’s attack with some success (6 goals in 19 Premier League matches). His imposing physique, his body play and his sense of goal impress even though he is only 18 years old. For some observers, he even recalls a certain Erling Haaland. The first rumors of a possible departure for a very big English club are circulating quickly. There is even talk of an incredible transfer worth €140 million!
The Irishman ultimately stayed at Brighton to better continue the next season and still under the leadership of Roberto De Zerbi. A goal on the first day, then a hat-trick in the 4th against Newcastle, he seemed to be starting again with a vengeance. The Seagulls even extended him in December 2023 until 2029 in order to lock him in and ensure a very likely huge influx of money when his transfer comes. Because he will come. However, it was at this time that the digestion of the first exciting months became more delicate. His goal in the FA Cup at the end of January marks the end of a first drought of 9 matches.
The growth crisis
The worst is yet to come. From winter onwards, Ferguson marked time. His playing time logically weakened and he ended up missing the last two months of the season due to a nasty ankle injury. His growth curve is stagnating but not his rating on the transfer market. In one year from the post-World Cup period, the player’s value increased from €1 million to €65 million on Transfermarktan increase of 6400%! His talent didn’t disappear as quickly as it appeared of course. Chelsea are still on the move and are considering an offer of €116 million in the 2024 winter transfer window.
However, rumors about his future are fewer, especially because he is injured. Only Manchester United has expressed its interests without going any further. The Irish international’s ankle operation cost him pre-season with this time a new coach at the helm of Brighton. At only 31 years old, Fabian Hürzeler takes over from Roberto De Zerbi. Between his late return to competition and the first good results obtained by the Swiss coach, Ferguson was relegated to the bench and struggled to even come into play. Welbeck, Mitoma, Rutter, Minteh and Joao Pedro all had a time of advance on him.
Overtaken by the hierarchy at Brighton
“He doesn’t need to show me what he can do, because I already know his potential. I’ve seen a lot of games in the past for Brighton”assured the young technician in September, aware that the attacker’s case could quickly become a problem. “He is an excellent finisher in the box. He has everything it takes to be a striker, so for me it is important that he fits into our style of play, that he follows our principles. He must do his job on the field: with and without possession. He has to help the team and then he will have a big impact on our game, that’s for sure. »
But the 20-year-old missed the opportunity offered by his coach. His only start of the season against Newcastle in mid-October ended in a frankly failed performance. After 1 hour spent on the field and without the slightest shot attempted, he had to give up his place. “The match was not easy for him, but I like the way he defended. The way he worked for the team was impressive. This is a very positive point and this is also what I give him as feedback”defended Hürzeler who concluded with prophetic words. “We need to give him confidence again after his long injury and I’m sure he will be back to his best form soon. »
A departure to be expected this winter
The following weekend, the center forward scored his only goal of the season ten minutes after coming on against Wolverhampton. He raised his arms for the first time in a club since… 33 matches. This joy was short-lived because over the next 4 Premier League matches, Hürzeler only allowed him 17 minutes of play. This situation cannot continue. After being surveyed for a transfer worth more than €100 million, Brighton will this time open the door for a loan after The Athletic. With only 269 minutes of play in 10 matches in all competitions (1 goal) this season, Ferguson must leave the Seagulls but to get back on track, not to reach the heights promised not so long ago.
