Unprecedented method in the Premier League » They called on an MMA fighter for the fixed phases

The revelation originally came via midfielder Jack Hinshelwood (21), who spoke about the initiative in an interview with the BBC. Hurzeler later confirmed the information in the pre-game press conference with Newcastle, stating that the training session took place “a few months ago”.

Fabian Hurzeler, explanations about the unconventional method: “We try to adapt”

The German technician explained that the decision was made in the context of the increasing emphasis on fixed phases and individual duels in the Premier League.

“I brought him in because we talked a lot about set pieces, deadlocks and new trends in the Premier League. We are trying to adapt, because I don't want this club to always be known as a nice club. At certain times, you have to be quite resilient in personal duels,” said Hurzeler.

The Brighton coach also detailed the logic behind the initiative, pointing out that the team is trying to borrow elements from other sports to gain an advantage in set pieces.

“There are different ways to use the body and skills to win one-on-one duels, especially in set pieces, and an MMA fighter always has those duels. Their job is to find a way to beat the opponent and we like to get ideas from other sports,” he added, according to the previously quoted source.

Hurzeler, the youngest manager in the Premier League, also stated that Brighton are trying to compensate for the physical differences in front of more imposing opponents.

“We don't want to be beaten easily when we face higher teams. We may not be as physical in terms of height, but there are always ways to defend and attack in these duels. That's why we also try to use different techniques from MMA,” he said.

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