The Cameroon international signed a deal with the Championship side until June 2022, and he reflected on a memorable period on the south coast with a poignant Instagram post.
He said, “It’s been five years at Brighton & Hove Albion, without a doubt a memorable time in my life. Years of immeasurable joy, our climb into the Premier League, very good teammates on the field and in the locker room, but also moments of questioning. I am happy to have helped the club write a big page in its history.
“I learned to love the club, the city and its supporters. Playing football here was special for me. A feeling of deep respect for the members of the club and you, my dear supporters who have always been there in the good times as well as in difficult times.
“However, this is the right time for me to start a new page in my life and I am happy to join Nottingham Forest Football Club team for this new challenge, and great opportunity. I made the choice to leave, but I will always feel at home there.
“Brighton has conquered my heart and that of my family and for that, I can never thank you enough. Thank you to the club, to the leaders, to my teammates, doctors, physical trainers, stadium workers and supporters, it is because of you that it all works.
“Thank you all for your support. I love you and will remain in my heart forever.”
Bong will go down in club folklore for being a member of the side that won promotion in 2017, and made 25 appearances in that unforgettable season.
He made a total of 102 senior appearances for the club, the last of which came in a 3-0 win over Tottenham Hotspur back in October.