Solly March has opened up about the difficult process of leaving Brighton & Hove Albion this summer after 13 years with the club. The 32-year-old winger, who had been with Brighton since being signed from nearby Lewes as a teenager in 2011, described the experience as a painful introduction to the harsh realities of professional football.

March’s departure came amid ongoing struggles with a knee injury that sidelined him for much of the past three seasons, during which he managed just 24 appearances. Despite a successful medical test at a Premier League club earlier this summer, he has yet to secure a new contract, underscoring the challenge he faces in convincing potential suitors of his fitness and form.

Reflecting on his exit from Brighton, March said he had been under the impression that a new deal was forthcoming after positive conversations with manager Fabian Hurzeler toward the end of the previous season. He recalled discussions with Hurzeler, including a social event where both he and his wife received encouraging indications about his future at the club. However, the day after the final game of the season, he was informed abruptly via his agent that the club had decided to part ways.

“It wasn’t the decision itself that hurt. That’s fine, that’s football,” March explained. “But it was the way it was done which probably hurt the most. It still hurts now.” He expressed disappointment that he was not informed earlier, which could have allowed him to gain match fitness and demonstrate his readiness to other clubs.

March’s knee issues originated in 2023, requiring surgery and a subsequent procedure in Germany. Looking back, he suspects he may have returned to play too soon initially but currently reports feeling fully recovered. To maintain his fitness, he has been training in Dubai and Doha, employing technology such as a GPS vest to monitor his performance data.

He is presently training with a Championship side and his physical condition reportedly meets Premier League standards, with a recent top speed of 35.4 km/h nearing his career best. March remains optimistic about his future, stating, “I still believe I can play in the Premier League.” He also recounted encouragement from a former Brighton teammate, who vouched for his ability to compete at a high level and revealed interest from clubs abroad.

March’s experience underscores the fine margins and brutal decisions often faced by professional footballers, as he now seeks to prove his fitness and quality to continue his career at the highest level.