Brighton have sent out a statement in which the chairman - Tony Bloom - claims he is "disappointed" to see head coach Graham Potter leave the club. The English manager leaves the Seagulls to join Chelsea on a five-year deal in a major move by new owners Clearlake-Boehly.
Potter spent just over three seasons in charge at Brighton, going on to make them a formidable side that also played an attractive style of play. Their model for recruitment has also caught the eye, looking to invest in young players from smaller countries or divisions to gain an advantage.
Successful pushes in the league have not only seen the South coast side survive, but they've managed to thrive and currently sit in the top four after a blistering start to the new Premier League campaign. However, the loss of Potter along with his backroom staff may come as a huge blow.
READ MORE: Graham Potter agrees to become new Chelsea head coach after Thomas Tuchel exit
His move to Chelsea comes after Todd Boehly and the board made the decision to sack Thomas Tuchel following a difficult start to the season and a difference in club direction. With Potter seen as the ideal candidate for a long-term push, the Blues triggered the release clause in his contract to bring him to the club.
Brighton chairman Bloom sent a farewell message in an official statement that reads: "I am very disappointed that Graham will be leaving us. He has done exceptionally well over the past three-and-a-bit seasons, he is an exceptional head coach and an exceptional person. He will be hugely missed at our football club.
"He leaves an excellent legacy for his successor with the club in its highest ever position, and on the back of leading us to our highest finish in the club’s history last season. I would like to thank Graham, Billy, Bjorn, Bruno, Ben and Kyle for their work here, and wish them all the very best for the future."
It leaves a glowing review of the manager heading into his new job, where he will be hoping he can continue the work he has done and potentially become the first English manager to win the Premier League.
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