Brighton's European hopes face early test against Man City and Spurs

Under the calm, modern leadership of 32-year-old Fabian Hurzeler - the youngest permanent manager in Premier League history - the Seagulls once again proved they could compete with the best through fluid football, smart recruitment, and tactical bravery.

Brighton opening Premier League fixtures:

16 August: Brighton v Fulham

24 August: Everton v Brighton

31 August: Brighton v Man City

13 September: Bournemouth v Brighton

20 September: Brighton v Tottenham

Brighton kick off the season at the Amex against a Fulham side coming off a mid-table finish. Fulham struggled away from home last season, making this an ideal opportunity for Hurzeler's men to set the tone early.

A first road test takes Brighton to Goodison Park - always a tough place to go. Everton claimed a narrow win in this fixture last season and will be backed by a loud home crowd.

A marquee early-season clash at the Amex. City remain the gold standard, but Brighton have given them headaches before - the sides drew 2-2 in March. Hurzeler's tactical setup will face its biggest test yet, and Brighton will need to be precise both with and without the ball to compete.

Following the international break, Brighton head down the coast to face a high-energy Bournemouth side, who could be among their competitors for a continental spot come the end of the season.

The Seagulls round off their opening stretch with a huge test against Tottenham at the Amex. Just a few points separated these sides last season, and this could prove to be an early six-pointer in the race for Europe.

In terms of transfer activity, Brighton have lost three key players in the form of Joao Pedro (Chelsea), Simon Adingra (Sunderland) and Pervis Estupinan (AC Milan) while planning for the future with an injection of youth.

Speaking during Brighton's pre-season tour, Hurzeler shared his thoughts on the state of the squad.

"Compared to my first pre-season we have better relationships, we have known each other a long time now. Overall, we are on a higher level but there are always things to improve," said Hurzeler.

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