Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Mats Wieffer has admitted his frustration at persistent fitness setbacks since moving to the Premier League. The Dutch international described his time at the Amex as disrupted by a “lot of stupid injuries,” but believes he has finally turned a corner after a full pre-season and a promising cameo against Chelsea.
“Lot of stupid injuries” – Brighton star shares his fitness frustrations — reflects Wieffer’s own words, spoken in an interview with Dutch outlet Algemeen Dagblad. Signed for €30m from Feyenoord in July 2024, Wieffer was expected to slot straight into Brighton’s midfield. Instead, thigh and knee problems sidelined him for over 100 days, stopping him from finding rhythm in his first season.
The 25-year-old started this campaign brightly, featuring in the opening two fixtures before another training setback. Against Everton on 24 August, he played 84 minutes in a 2-0 defeat but aggravated his knee, ruling him out for two further matches. Yet, the midfielder is determined not to let his stop-start journey define him at Brighton.
“I’ve suffered a lot of stupid injuries,” he admitted. “I never really got into my rhythm. It was a real struggle anyway. The Premier League isn’t just any competition. Being sidelined for extended periods on top of that doesn’t help. Things are going well now.”
“Lot of stupid injuries” – Brighton star shares his fitness frustrations
Wieffer’s honesty underlines both his challenges and his determination. He explained how missing last summer’s pre-season due to a thigh problem left him short of fitness and substance: “Last summer, I had no substance. Now I do. And then you immediately see that everything is easier.”
“I ended up playing almost the entire match [against Everton]. After that, I had so much trouble that I was out of action for a while. It’s better now, although it’s not completely over yet.” — Mats Wieffer, Algemeen Dagblad
Wieffer’s role in Brighton’s resurgence
The midfielder returned at the weekend, coming off the bench to set up Maxim De Cuyper’s late goal in Brighton’s 3-1 victory over Chelsea. His versatility, able to cover as both a holding midfielder and right-back, is a valuable asset for Hürzeleri as Brighton look to balance Premier League and European commitments.
With Brighton sitting mid-table but showing signs of progress, Wieffer’s fitness could be the difference in unlocking consistency. His ability to break up play, cover ground and deliver incisive passes makes him a natural fit for Hürzeler’s high-energy system.
Mats Wieffer 2025/26 stats so far
| Stat (2025/26) | Mats Wieffer |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 4 |
| Goals | 0 |
| Assists | 1 |
| Pass Accuracy | –% |
source: sofascore match data – 29 September 2025
His assist against Chelsea is a sign of things to come if he can stay fit. For a team that has often lacked midfield stability when injuries strike, Wieffer’s return could be timely.
Analyst verdict – John William
FootballPlace analyst John William believes Wieffer’s transparency is refreshing but also telling of the difficulties players face adapting to the Premier League. “Wieffer is an intelligent midfielder, but his rhythm has been shattered by injuries. Now, with a full pre-season under his belt, we are beginning to see the player Brighton invested in.”
He added: “If Wieffer can stay fit, he provides Brighton with both tactical flexibility and much-needed depth. His combination of defensive cover and ball progression will be crucial in matches against top-six opposition.”
Key insights
- Mats Wieffer admits “lot of stupid injuries” have stalled his Brighton career.
- The Dutchman missed over 100 days since joining from Feyenoord in 2024.
- He has now returned, assisting Maxim De Cuyper in a 3-1 win over Chelsea.
- A full pre-season has restored his fitness and confidence.
- Wieffer’s versatility could be vital for Brighton’s European push.
What’s next for Brighton?
Brighton face Wolves on 5 October before busy November Premier League fixtures will demand both intensity and squad depth, giving Wieffer the chance to cement his place in Hürzeler’s plans.
With the Seagulls eager to climb the Premier League table, Wieffer’s fitness and form could provide the spark needed to turn promising performances into consistent results. If his injury troubles are finally behind him, Brighton may have their €30m midfield anchor ready to shine.
👉 Can Mats Wieffer stay fit long enough to show why Brighton invested €30m in his talent?
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