Midfielder, Adam Lallana will leave Brighton & Hove Albion at the conclusion of 2023-24 season.
Lallana joined Brighton from Liverpool as a free agent in July 2020 and has gone on to score four goals in 103 appearances, during which he helped the Seagulls qualify for Europe for the first time last season where they this season reached the Round of 16 in the Europa League.
Addressing his decision to depart Brighton, Lallana commented: “It was a tough decision, but it just feels like the right time, not just for myself but for the club as well. I’ve been in talks with Roberto for the past couple of months and he expressed his wish for me to stay and keep playing.
“However, after taking a little time to think about where the football club is at, and having been away from my family for the last four years, I just feel it’s the right time.”
Lallana went on to explain that he made the decision after speaking to his “biggest influence” which are his kids, who now are at an age where they need him around more and to be put first.
Brighton will finish the season with home games against Chelsea and Manchester United which has excited Lallana, who is looking to “… get a couple of really positive results, and finish the season on a high.”
The two home fixtures also represent a chance for Lallana to say farewell to the Albion fans as he shared a message of thanks.
“I would like to say thank you for all your support these past four years. We have experienced some unbelievable times. My message to our fans is keep supporting the lads, through the tough moments.
“The club is in an unbelievable position. Everything that’s come out of this season: the financial numbers, European football, hopefully finishing in the top ten again, these are massive steps.”
Lallana proceeded to urge fans to continue their support as he added: “It’s important the fans remain patient and realistic in what we’re doing and what we’ve done. The club’s in safe hands with Tony Bloom, so trust the process and keep supporting the boys every week.”
Head Coach, Roberto De Zerbi meanwhile has called on fans to show understanding for Lallana’s decision to depart, and iterated that the midfielder is still capable of playing top-flight football in an endorsement for any rival looking to sign Lallana for next season.
“We are losing a great man and great player. It has been his decision and we have to respect that. He has been a key player for me in my time here. At the beginning, Adam Lallana, Adam Webster, Pascal Gross, they followed me from the first day, and he will be a big loss for us.
“He is very smart, he loves football, he loves playing football. He understands the game as a player and as a coach, but I think he could play another season in the Premier League for sure.”
Chairman, Bloom issued a lengthy statement in which he spoke of Lallana’s impact at the club and leadership qualities, whilst crediting him for his role in the team’s progress over the last four seasons.
Adam was a crucial signing for us, bringing top-level experience at a critical time. His ability was clear for everyone to see, but what wasn’t evident to those watching on was how Adam has helped to raise standards and expectations in the dressing room and across the club.
“Fans, and the media in particular, got to see and more importantly hear this during those lockdown matches, when you could hear how vocal Adam was on the pitch in terms of his leadership qualities.
“He has been a great servant to this club and a big factor in our recent progress – not least in qualifying for European competition for the first time in the club’s history.
“On behalf of all Albion fans I would like to thank Adam for his time here and wish him well in the next stage of his career.”
Lallana will announce his future plans in due course once he has reflected on the current season.
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