Brighton & Hove Albion have given Björn Hamberg, their Under-18s manager, permission to take on a second role as assistant coach to Graham Potter with the Sweden national team.
The 38-year-old Swede will reunite with Potter — his long-time colleague and friend — as the pair work together again after previous spells at Östersunds FK, Swansea City, Brighton, and Chelsea. Their coaching partnership had been on hold since Potter’s departure from Chelsea in 2023, but it will now be revived on the international stage.
Potter reunites with trusted lieutenant
Fotboll Skanalen reports that Hamberg has officially joined Potter’s staff ahead of Sweden’s upcoming matches against Slovenia and Malta, marking the first step in Potter’s project to revive the national team following a poor World Cup qualifying campaign.
Hamberg, who returned to Brighton this August to take charge of the U18s after a stint with Feyenoord, described his new dual role as “the best of both worlds.”
“Of course, it is absolutely fantastic and glorious,” Hamberg said. “I’m excited and very inspired by the environment itself with all the players and leaders around here.
I’m lucky to have the employer I have. It’s a fantastic club that saw all the positives in giving me the opportunity to work for my country and represent my country. In my world, I get the best of both worlds.”
Brighton have allowed Hamberg to split his duties, enabling him to continue leading the academy side while contributing to Sweden’s senior setup during international breaks.
Brighton’s flexibility earns praise
Hamberg was quick to thank the Seagulls for their understanding and progressive approach, noting that his return to the south coast had always been part of his long-term plan.
“I had already planned to return to Brighton after leaving Feyenoord and saw the stars align when a role came up,” he explained. “One of the reasons I took the U18 job was to be the main person in charge, to experience it and test myself in that environment.
My first experience as a head coach has been very, very positive — it’s something I really enjoy.”
The Swedish coach also believes that balancing club and country work will strengthen his managerial credentials for future opportunities.
| Career Path | Björn Hamberg |
|---|---|
| Nationality | Swedish |
| Age | 38 |
| Current Roles | Brighton U18 Manager / Sweden Assistant Coach |
| Previous Clubs with Potter | Östersunds FK, Swansea, Brighton, Chelsea |
| Joined Brighton (U18) | August 2025 |
source: Fotboll Skanalen – 12 November 2025
Our View: A smart move by both Brighton and Sweden
In our view, Brighton’s willingness to let Hamberg take on this dual role shows the club’s forward-thinking ethos. Supporting a coach’s international experience not only strengthens their development but also reflects positively on the club’s reputation within European football.
For Sweden, Potter’s decision to bring back a trusted colleague is equally significant. The pair’s shared philosophy and tactical understanding could be key as the national team seeks to rebuild after a turbulent qualification campaign.
Key Insights
- Brighton U18s boss Björn Hamberg joins Graham Potter as Sweden assistant.
- Hamberg has worked with Potter at four clubs, including Brighton and Chelsea.
- Brighton have permitted him to hold both roles simultaneously.
- He describes the opportunity as “the best of both worlds.”
- The experience could prepare him for future senior managerial roles.
What’s Next
Hamberg will assist Sweden during the upcoming international window before returning to his duties at Brighton’s academy. The Seagulls’ U18s are next in action later this month, while Potter prepares for crucial fixtures as he looks to spark a new era for Swedish football.
👉 Brighton fans — how do you feel about Hamberg taking on the Sweden role alongside his academy duties?
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