Brighton & Hove Albion have appointed Enock Mwepu as a coach of their Under-9s team.
Mwepu was forced to retire at the age of 24 in October 2022 due to a heart condition, after scoring three goals in 27 appearances for Brighton following his move in July 2021 from Red Bull Salzburg, having previously began his career at FC Liefering.
The Zambia international has since assessed alternative football career options, which ultimately saw him decide upon a coaching role with Brighton’s Academy, where he will coach their Under-9s squad.
Brighton’s Men First-Team Head Coach, Roberto De Zerbi commented upon Mwepu’s appointment as he said: “We’re really happy that Enock has decided to remain here at our club and use his experience to help develop our young players.
“Considering his age, Enock has a wealth of experience. He has played in the Champions League and Premier League as well as captaining his country. This is the next chapter for Enock in his footballing career.”
Brighton’s Chief Executive and Deputy Chairman, Paul Barber added that the club “were very keen to help” Mwepu consider his career options, and are “delighted” he has accepted a coaching role in their Academy following “an incredibly difficult time for him and his family following his diagnosis.”
Barber also iterated that when the club considers recruiting new staff members on and off the pitch, they’re eager for each staff member to “fit with our club values” which Mwepu has from across his 15-month playing stint at the AMEX Stadium.
On seeing Mwepu begin the transition from player to coach, Barber added: “We’re thrilled Enock will continue to be part of our club, and believe Enock has a huge amount of potential as a coach. We want to give him the opportunity to flourish in this role.”
Mwepu will commence his new coaching role in January 2023
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