Carlos Baleba responds as emotional Brighton exit confirmed
Carlos Baleba was among several Brighton players to respond to an emotional farewell message following a confirmed staff departure at the club.
Baleba enjoyed a standout season at Brighton, establishing himself as a key player in what’s been a breakthrough campaign for the 21-year-old.
He made 40 appearances in all competitions, contributing four goals and two assists, and quickly became a vital figure in Fabian Hurzeler’s first season in charge.
In recognition of his impact, Brighton named Baleba Brighton’s Young Player of the Season, an award that highlights his growing importance and consistency throughout the campaign.
His form hasn’t gone unnoticed, with Football Insider reporting that Liverpool are among the top clubs showing interest in Baleba this summer.
As the season came to a close, the midfielder joined teammates in reacting to a heartfelt farewell shared by a departing staff member.
| Premier League statistics | Carlos Baleba |
| Appearances | 61 |
| Goals | 3 |
| Assists | 1 |
| Tackles | 119 |
| Tackle success | 55% |
Carlos Baleba reacts to Brighton coach Marco Knoop’s departure
Baleba was among the Brighton players to respond to goalkeeping coach Marco Knoop’s message confirming his departure from the club this summer.
Knoop’s emotional post featured a letter addressed to the fans, prompting a wave of support. Baleba liked the post, while Jack Hinshelwood added a heartfelt message, saying: “Good luck Marco” with a heart emoji.
Brighton have since confirmed they will appoint a new goalkeeping coach and are also expected to recruit a dedicated set-piece specialist, with Knoop having handled defensive set-pieces during his season at the Amex.
Brighton braced for Bart Verbruggen offers amid Barcelona and Bayern interest
With Knoop on his way out, Brighton could also be set to lose their first-choice goalkeeper, Bart Verbruggen, as interest builds from some of Europe’s top clubs.
Reports suggest Barcelona have already made contact over a possible move for Verbruggen, as they continue to assess long-term replacements in goal.
They’re not the only European giants that have looked at the Dutchman, with Brighton fans calling for Verbruggen to be sold after reports suggested Bayern Munich were willing to spend up to £60 million for him.
Should the move materialise, it could signal significant changes in Brighton’s goalkeeping department ahead of the new season.