Where does Ayari fit into Hurzeler’s plan?

As Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler continues to settle into his new role, he will have to decide whether Yasin Ayari plays a role in the Seagulls 2024-25 Premier League campaign, or if the midfielder is to be loaned out for a third spell.

The 20-year-old, who signed from AIK Solna in January 2023, was likely an investment for the future at £3.5m but was also rumoured to be the replacement for Moises Caicedo.

At the time, technical director David Weir said he would “need time to settle here and acclimatise to the Premier League” but “is a versatile and technical midfield player.”

He was given his debut in a 5-0 FA Cup win over Grimsby and has made three Premier League appearances, including a first start against Aston Villa in May 2023.

Ayari joined Championship outfit Coventry City on a season-long loan that summer, and while he showed glimpses of promise for Mark Robins’ side, he spent the majority of games on the bench and unused.

He played 13 times for the Sky Blues, scoring one goal, before his loan was terminated in January and he made the switch to Blackburn Rovers. Weir facilitated the move to Lancashire to “give him more opportunities to play” and he made a total of 11 appearances there as Rovers fought for survival.

So what next for the Sweden international?

Ayari travelled to Japan as part of Hurzeler’s 31-man pre-season squad and netted in the 5-1 win over Kashima Antlers on Wednesday.

If he was hoping to make an impression on the new boss then his calmly executed goal was the perfect way to do so.

And although his loan spells have failed to deliver so far, a third move is most likely to be the outcome. Brighton‘s midfield boasts first-team starters in Karou Mitoma, Solly March, Pascal Gross and Billy Gilmour, so competition would be tough for a player that is still developing.

But should Gilmour leave the Amex for Napoli this summer, then a slot for Ayari may just open and it could be his chance to shine.

What do you suggest Brighton fans? Will another season out on loan benefit the youngster, or should Hurzeler keep him for development and squad depth?

Let us know here