Tireless leader on pitch and unifier off it – what makes Gross special

By the Editorial Team · Monday, September 21, 2026

Pascal Gross has played every minute of Brighton’s eight matches this season, becoming the oldest Premier League player to do so while also captaining the team and contributing goals and assists. His leadership and ability to unite a diverse squad have been crucial to Brighton’s strong start under coach Fabian Hürzeler, highlighting his importance both on and off the field.

Pascal Gross has emerged as a key figure in Brighton & Hove Albion’s midfield and overall team cohesion during the current season. The 35-year-old midfielder, who returned to Brighton in January after a one-and-a-half-year stint at Borussia Dortmund, has played every minute of Brighton’s eight matches across all competitions so far, making him the oldest player in the Premier League to achieve this feat.

Brighton head coach Fabian Hürzeler, the youngest manager in the league at 33, praised Gross not only for his on-field contributions but also for his off-field influence. Hürzeler highlighted Gross’s ability to foster trust and connection among players from various national and generational backgrounds, emphasizing that the midfielder plays a significant role in uniting a diverse squad. “He has an understanding of all these dynamics, and he brings these different backgrounds together,” Hürzeler said.

On the pitch, Gross continues to demonstrate his stamina and work ethic. He covered 12.6 kilometers during Brighton’s recent match against Arsenal, more than any other player in the game. Hürzeler joked that Gross might spend his international break searching for a race to run, suggesting that the midfielder rarely slows down even during rest periods.

Gross’s influence also extends to Brighton’s attacking output. This season, he has already scored three goals and provided three assists in five league appearances. His recent performance against Arsenal was particularly notable; he opened the scoring with a well-placed strike and later assisted on a goal from a corner, helping Brighton dismantle the reigning league champions. The coach likened Gross to “a good wine,” noting that the player seems to improve with age and continues to make his teammates better.

Gross’s leadership was especially important during the Arsenal match, where he captained the side in the absence of Lewis Dunk, who was sidelined due to injury. His ability to maintain high performance levels while serving as a unifying figure underscores his value to the club.

Overall, Gross’s combination of technical ability, endurance, and interpersonal skills has made him a vital component of Brighton’s early-season success under Hürzeler’s management. The midfielder’s presence continues to provide both stability and inspiration as the team competes in the Premier League and other competitions.

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