Brighton coach Roberto De Zerbi has emphasized the need for forward Ansu Fati to elevate his performance as the season progresses. Fati, who is on loan from Barcelona, has faced challenges in meeting the high expectations set for him since joining Brighton at the beginning of the season.
The 21-year-old Spanish international has been hampered by injuries, causing him to miss a significant portion of the campaign. Despite making 23 appearances in all competitions, Fati has struggled to make a significant impact, with most of his appearances coming off the bench.
De Zerbi acknowledged Fati's talent but stressed the importance of adapting to the expectations placed upon him. The coach expressed his support for Fati's development, highlighting the player's positive attitude and willingness to improve.
Having inherited the iconic No.10 shirt at Barcelona following Lionel Messi's departure, Fati's career trajectory was disrupted by injuries, prompting his move to Brighton in search of regular playing time. Initially showing promise with four goals in his first 14 games for the club, Fati's progress was hindered by subsequent injuries.
Since returning to action in February, Fati has struggled to find the back of the net, raising concerns about his form. Despite being an unused substitute in a recent match against Liverpool, Brighton remains optimistic about Fati's potential impact as they aim for a top-seven finish in the Premier League.
De Zerbi's call for Fati to deliver more on the pitch underscores the club's commitment to helping the young forward reach his full potential. With the season entering its final stages, Fati faces a crucial period to showcase his abilities and make a lasting impression at Brighton.
As Brighton prepares to face Brentford, the spotlight remains on Fati as he seeks to fulfill the expectations placed upon him and contribute significantly to the team's ambitions of securing European qualification for the second consecutive season.
