Michael Svoboda has described his move to Brighton and Hove Albion as the fulfilment of a childhood dream after making the switch to the Premier League this summer.
The 27-year-old defender joined Brighton from Venezia at the beginning of July in a deal worth €5million, arriving as a replacement for Jan Paul van Hecke.
Svoboda’s move represents another major step in a career that began in his native Austria before taking him to Italy and now England.
Svoboda delighted with Premier League move
Svoboda spent six years with Venezia after joining the Italian club on a free transfer in 2020.
He went on to make 138 appearances, contributing five goals and six assists before Brighton came calling this summer.
The Austrian has now revealed that playing in England was something he had dreamed about from a young age.
“As a child, it was my absolute biggest wish, and now it’s actually become a reality,” Svoboda told Krone.
“Of course, this path wasn’t something I could have foreseen.”
Brighton life already impressing defender
Svoboda appears to have settled quickly away from football as well, with the defender and his wife Ines finding a new home close to the coast.
“I’ve settled in well; the move is complete,” he explained.
“My wife Ines and I decided on a house with a garden, and we have the sea right on our doorstep – it’s perfect for unwinding.”
That comfortable start should help Svoboda as he adjusts to a new club, country and league following such a lengthy spell in Italy.
England brings some new challenges
Not every part of the transition has been straightforward.
One of Svoboda’s first adjustments has been getting accustomed to driving on the opposite side of the road.
“Driving on the other side of the road for the first time felt very strange, but fun,” he said.
There is also one thing from Italy that he is clearly missing – the food.
“When it comes to food, the English can’t compete with Austrian or Italian cuisine,” Svoboda added.
“If you want to enjoy good pasta, there aren’t many options.”
Focus now turns to Brighton breakthrough
Having settled into his new surroundings, Svoboda’s attention will now turn towards establishing himself in Brighton’s first team.
The move gives the defender his first opportunity in English football after six years with Venezia, and he arrives with significant experience behind him.
Brighton will hope that experience can help Svoboda quickly adapt to the demands of the Premier League and fill the gap left by Van Hecke.
Key Points
- Michael Svoboda joined Brighton from Venezia for €5m this summer.
- The 27-year-old described playing in England as his biggest childhood dream.
- Svoboda spent six years at Venezia and made 138 appearances.
- He and his wife have settled into a new home near the sea.
- The defender is now focused on establishing himself in Brighton’s first team.
What’s Next?
Svoboda will now look to earn regular minutes and establish himself in Brighton’s defence as he begins the latest chapter of his career in the Premier League.
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