Brighton’s manager says the 25 year old winger needs more time to adjust after joining from Millwall on deadline day.
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Hurzeler’s update
Brighton head coach Fabian Hurzeler says Femi Azeez is not yet ready to make his competitive debut for the club. The 25 year old winger joined from Millwall on transfer deadline day, but his first appearance has been delayed. FootballInNigeria.com.ng reports that he is still recovering from an injury picked up on the opening day of the season.
Azeez was hurt in Millwall’s opening game against Bristol City. He played in a behind closed-doors friendly during the three week international break as he works towards full fitness, and Hurzeler said he had some minor issues afterwards.
Speaking to The Argus, Hurzeler said it is not an injury but small issues, and that Azeez is “quite sensitive”. He explained that the winger’s body needs to adapt to Brighton’s intensity and the demands of the Premier League.
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Patience for new signings
Hurzeler said the club will decide with Azeez whether it makes sense to play him this weekend or in the next game. He called it a decision they have to make together.
The coach stressed that Brighton are patient with every new player. Some need more time, he said, and others adapt faster, so the club is watching how Azeez reacts.
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A big move for a rising winger
Brighton signed Azeez on a four-year contract, with the fee reported at an initial £12.5 million that could rise above £15 million. The deal also includes an option for a further year, according to reports.
Azeez shone for Millwall in the 2025/26 Championship, scoring 11 goals and providing seven assists in 37 league games. He was named in the PFA Championship Team of the Year as Millwall reached the play-offs.
Super Eagles fans will want to see him fit and playing soon. Brighton fans can check Bet9ja’s updated promotion code page before his first appearance.
What it means for Nigeria
Azeez made his Super Eagles debut in June 2026. Regular football at Brighton would strengthen his case for a place in Eric Chelle’s squad.
Can he settle quickly once he is fit? Hurzeler’s tone suggests there is no rush.
📌 Did You Know?
- Azeez was born on June 5, 2001.
- He joined Millwall from Reading in August 2024 for a fee reported at around £1 million.
- His first Millwall goal was an injury time equaliser in a 1-1 draw with Sunderland on November 23, 2024.
- He was born in the United Kingdom to a Nigerian father and a Spanish mother.
- He started his youth career at Watford and also played for Northwood, Wealdstone and Hanwell Town before Reading.
