Mackley: Promoting youth is what Brighton are good at

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Defender felt comfortable on first-team debut.

Charlie Hanson

2025-07-27T17:00+01:00

The defender played the second half of our 2-0 win over Las Palmas. 📸 by James Boardman.

Callum Mackley believes Albion are well setup to allow young player to flourish when they make the step up to the first team.

The 18-year-old was handed his first appearance for Albion in our pre-season friendly win over Las Palmas in Spain – an opportunity he felt ready for.

“The manager likes to bring young lads in and train with the first team. I feel like that is what Brighton as a club are good at.

“Sometimes I am involved in a session and I feel like it is a good environment for me to gain experience and learn and be around the lads so, when opportunities like that come along, it is not a surprise.”

Having been with Albion for the last six years as he’s progressed through the academy, the versatile defender has a lot of people to thank for making it this far.

“I have been at Brighton since I was 12 and I was at Southampton since the age of seven so that’s a lot of driving and miles for my dad to cover.

“As well as my siblings who play football as well so him putting in that time and effort for me is really helpful.

“When Brighton came in and asked about me, I went and had a look around and felt Brighton was the place for me.

Callum Mackley has been with Albion since he was 12-years-old. 📸 by James Boardman.

“From all the staff, the education, the building, just the feeling of the club was really attractive to me and since I have been here it has been the best.

“I am forever grateful for all the hard work the staff put in. There are too many people to mention – too many top coaches, all the way through the academy.

“I am just very grateful for their hard work and efforts, for giving me opportunities and trusting me and it has paid off.”