Fabian Hurzeler in action for Brighton in 2025 pre-season friendly

Brighton’s Stefanos Tzimas and Charalampos Kostoulas step up Premier League preparations

Adem Ozcan Last updated: Aug 13, 2025, 8:43 am
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Image: IMAGO / Sportimage

Brighton & Hove Albion have been handed a timely boost ahead of the Premier League kick-off as Greek youngsters Stefanos Tzimas and Charalampos Kostoulas rejoined full training this week. Both were sidelined at the back end of last season with their previous clubs and have been carefully managed since arriving at the Amex.

Tzimas featured briefly as a substitute in Albion’s behind-closed-doors 2-0 win over Wolfsburg on Saturday, a game in which Kostoulas was an unused substitute. The pair are now edging closer to proper competitive minutes as they continue their adaptation to the physical intensity of English football.

Player Quote – Hurzeler Confirms Positive Progress

Head coach Fabian Hurzeler gave an encouraging update on both players’ integration.

“Yes, and the other (Kostoulas) hopefully as well soon. So they’re both training, and I know it’s going step by step.” — Fabian Hurzeler

Squad Picture Brightens

Tariq Lamptey, Olivier Boscagli and Tommy Watson also took part in yesterday’s session, adding to the competition for places. Meanwhile, transfer speculation continues around Carlos Baleba and a potential Manchester United approach — though Brighton are not expected to sanction his departure until at least next summer. Midfielder Malick Yalcouye is, however, close to finalising a loan move to Swansea City.

Analyst Verdict

Brighton’s recruitment model thrives on early integration of young talent. Managing Tzimas and Kostoulas through a controlled build-up could pay off later in the season, particularly as fixture congestion bites. From reviewing training clips, both look sharp in movement and technically clean — the signs are positive.

Key Insights

  • Tzimas played a few minutes in 2-0 win over Wolfsburg.
  • Kostoulas was an unused sub but back in training.
  • Both recovering from injuries suffered last season.
  • Hurzeler says progress is “step by step”.

What’s Next

Brighton will continue to ease both players into match situations, with potential involvement in early-season cup fixtures. Their Premier League debuts could arrive before the end of September if progress continues.


Should Hurzeler fast-track the Greek duo into league action — or keep them in a gradual adaptation plan?

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