sevendayweekender – Germany international Pascal Gross has completed a return to Brighton after spending 18 months in Germany. The experienced midfielder has rejoined the Premier League club on a contract running until June 2027. Brighton confirmed the agreement as the team prepares for the second half of the season. The move brings back one of the most influential players in the club’s recent history.
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Pascal Gross Returns to Brighton on Deal Running Until June 2027
Pascal Gross has rejoined Brighton & Hove Albion from Borussia Dortmund. The 34-year-old midfielder signed a deal that will keep him at the club until June 2027. His return comes 18 months after leaving the south coast side.
Gross originally departed Brighton in the summer of 2024. He joined Borussia Dortmund for a reported fee of around £8 million. At the time, the move fulfilled a long-held personal ambition. Dortmund had been described by Gross as his boyhood club. The decision was emotional for both player and supporters.
During his time in Germany, Gross made 66 appearances for Dortmund. He scored one goal across all competitions. He also registered 17 assists for the Bundesliga side. His contributions often came through creativity and experience rather than goal scoring.
Despite consistent involvement, Gross’s role was not always central. Squad rotation and tactical demands limited his influence at times. Dortmund valued his professionalism and adaptability. However, circumstances eventually aligned for a return to England. Brighton moved to secure his services once availability became clear.
The midfielder previously spent seven seasons with Brighton. He joined the club from FC Ingolstadt in 2017. Over that period, he established himself as a cornerstone of the squad. His intelligence and versatility made him indispensable. Few players matched his consistency.
Across all competitions, Gross made 261 appearances for Brighton and, as a result, became one of the club’s longest-serving modern players. Over time, his understanding of the Premier League proved invaluable, and supporters came to associate him with stability and progression. Consequently, many now view his return as a homecoming.
From the club’s perspective, Brighton officials described the deal as strategic. In particular, they identified experience as a key requirement for the current squad. Moreover, Gross brings leadership and composure, while his familiarity with the club’s culture significantly reduces adaptation time. Therefore, the coaching staff expect him to contribute immediately.
Leadership and Experience Boost Brighton’s Second-Half Ambitions
Brighton head coach Fabian Hurzeler welcomed Gross’s return publicly. He said the club was delighted to bring the midfielder back. Hurzeler noted their previous professional connection. He emphasized anticipation about working together. The coach highlighted Gross’s qualities beyond technical ability.
Hurzeler said Gross brings strong leadership to the group. He described him as a fantastic player with deep experience. According to the coach, those traits will be crucial in the coming months. Brighton face a demanding fixture schedule. Experience is expected to help guide younger players.
Gross’s first spell included historic achievements for the club. He played a central role in Brighton’s rise within English football. The 2022–23 season marked a significant milestone. Brighton finished sixth in the Premier League. That result secured qualification for European competition.
Gross’s contribution during that campaign was substantial. His tactical awareness allowed flexibility across positions. Managers trusted him in high-pressure situations. His calm distribution and positioning provided balance. Those attributes remain relevant as Brighton evolve. Individually, Gross delivered strong statistical output. He made 228 Premier League appearances for Brighton. During those matches, he scored 30 goals. He also provided 45 assists in the league. Those figures underline his creative influence.
At international level, Gross earned recognition with Germany. He has been capped 16 times by his country. While not always a starter, he offered depth and reliability. His club performances supported repeated call-ups. International experience added to his profile. When Gross left Brighton in 2024, he addressed fans directly. He wrote a farewell letter expressing emotional conflict. He said he departed with a heavy heart. However, he explained he would regret not joining Dortmund. The message reflected honesty and respect.
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His return has been welcomed warmly by supporters. Many view the move as symbolic. Gross represents continuity during a transitional period. His presence balances youth and experience. Brighton believe this blend is essential. From a sporting perspective, the move suits all parties. Dortmund conclude the chapter amicably. Brighton regain a trusted figure. Gross secures a familiar environment for the later stage of his career. The agreement reflects mutual respect.
