Brighton & Hove Albion's Georginio Rutter 'not happy' ahead of Leeds United return, concedes Fabian Hurzeler
Brighton & Hove Albion head coach Fabian Hurzeler’s admission over Georginio Rutter ahead of Leeds United return
Brighton & Hove Albion head coach Fabian Hurzeler has conceded Georginio Rutter is “not happy” with his form ahead of the playmaker’s Leeds United reunion.
The 24-year-old is a familiar face at Elland Road having spent 18 months at the club prior to his £40m move to Brighton.
He will return to Elland Road in the colours of the Seagulls on Sunday (May 17), but will not do so as a man in stellar form.
Rutter has seen his form tail off this term and has managed just three goals in the Premier League. He has been absent from Brighton’s starting XI in each of their last two games, facing competition in the ‘number 10’ role from Jack Hinshelwood.
Georginio Rutter ‘not happy’
Hurzeler told Sussex World: “I feel that he's in a good place, of course he's not happy with his game, that's normal. But I feel that he's there for the teammates, that he's there for the club and that's the most important, that everyone puts their ego behind the success of the club.
“That's what I always emphasise, it's team first and there are some moments you have to put your ego behind. Regarding Georginio, he's in a good place.
“I know he's not happy about his game minutes but he's 100 per cent committed, 100 per cent wanting to contribute the best impact he can do towards the team and therefore I'm really pleased how he's doing.”
Georginio Rutter’s time at Leeds United
Rutter was a marquee signing for Leeds in January 2023, when the Whites paid a club-record fee to prise him from Hoffenheim.
He joined during a period of turbulence and barely featured as the club fought an unsuccessful battle against relegation from the Premier League.
The Frenchman found form in the Championship, although his exploits were not enough to send Leeds back into the top flight at the first time of asking.
Brighton activated his release clause in August 2024, ending Rutter’s relatively brief but undeniably eventful stint at Leeds.
After completing the move, Rutter said: “It’s hard for me to say goodbye, but the time has come for me to move on. When I joined Leeds, I knew I was becoming part of something special, but I didn’t realise how much this club would mean to me. Leeds United has been more than just a team for me - it’s been like a family that has supported and helped me grow.
“From day one, you, the fans, have always been there, cheering me on and showing me what it means to play for Leeds. You made me feel at home, and I will always remember that.
“My time here was full of hard work, great moments, and strong friendships. I’m leaving as a better player and a better person, and I’m really thankful for that.
"Even though I’m heading in a new direction, Leeds United will always be a part of who I am. I wish you all the best for the future and the challenges ahead. Thank you for everything, Leeds. I’ll never forget you. MOT, Georginio.”