Brighton Injury News: Brighton & Hove Albion have received positive news regarding the return of Japanese winger Kaoru Mitoma. Mitoma has been sidelined for an extended period due to a hamstring injury. However, manager Fabian Hürzeler has indicated that the club will not rush his return, as his recovery is still ongoing.
Since sustaining a serious hamstring injury towards the end of last season, Mitoma has not featured for Brighton this campaign. The club hopes that the 29-year-old could return following the November international break, though his participation in the upcoming Premier League match remains uncertain.
Update on Kaoru Mitoma’s injury: What happened?
Kaoru Mitoma is recovering from a serious hamstring injury sustained towards the end of last season. As a result, the Japanese player has been sidelined since the start of Brighton’s 2026-27 campaign.
His absence comes as a major blow to Fabian Hürzeler, as Mitoma is one of Brighton’s most dangerous attacking threats. His blistering pace, dribbling ability, and creativity make him a vital component of the team’s attack.
Brighton is taking a very cautious approach to his recovery, ensuring that he returns only when fully fit and at no risk of re-injury.
Kaoru Mitoma’s Return Date: When Will He Play Again?
Brighton manager Fabian Hürzeler hopes that Mitoma could return for the Premier League match against Hull City on November 22, 2026.
However, the Brighton boss also noted that it might take another week or two for the winger to be fully ready to rejoin the squad.
Hürzeler explained that there is a lot of optimism regarding Mitoma’s return, but given his long absence due to a serious injury, the club will allow him all the time he needs.
November 22 is a potential return date, not a confirmed one. His fitness will be assessed before Brighton makes any final decision.
Fabian Hürzeler’s latest comments on Mitoma
Speaking about the Japanese winger’s recovery, Hürzeler expressed optimism while also emphasizing the importance of patience.
There is a good deal of hope and full confidence that he could be available, but it might take another week or two.
The Brighton manager also highlighted how crucial Mitoma will be to the team once he returns to full fitness.
Why Kaoru Mitoma’s return is significant for Brighton
Mitoma’s potential return will provide Brighton with an additional attacking option, helping them sustain their impressive start to the Premier League season.
- Attacking threat: Mitoma’s pace and dribbling ability can pose serious challenges for opposing defenders.
- Creativity on the wing: He can create goal-scoring opportunities through his dangerous runs and precise passing.
- Squad depth: His return gives Hürzeler more options in the attacking third.
- Premier League ambitions: Having one of their key attacking players available during a busy schedule will be a major boost for Brighton.
Brighton’s Next Match: Hull City vs Brighton
Following the November international break, Brighton is set to return to Premier League action against Hull City. This match could mark a long-awaited return for Mitoma, depending on his recovery progress.
| Match | Hull City vs. Brighton |
|---|---|
| Competition | Premier League 2026-27 |
| Date | November 22, 2026 |
| Brighton Manager | Fabian Hürzeler |
| Mitoma’s Status | Recovering from a hamstring injury |
| Potential Return | November 22, or possibly 1–2 weeks later |
