Club news

Jahanbakhsh Happy To Sign At Right Moment

By Kieran Cleeves • 25 July 2018

New Brighton & Hove Albion winger Alireza Jahanbakhsh admitted his excitement to seal a move to the Seagulls three years after having the opportunity to move to England, and is now eager to meet his new team-mates and get started.

The Iran international became the club’s record signing after joining from Dutch outfit AZ Alkmaar, and Jahanbakhsh believes he has chosen the right moment to move to the Amex Stadium, after coming close to a move a few years ago.

He said, “I’m really delighted to sign for the club. I was really looking forward to being here, seeing the facilities and the people here.

“It’s been a long process to get here, with some busy days deciding where to go, but I’m finally here and very happy about my decision.

“I had the opportunity to come here three years ago, and although it was the right place for me, it wasn’t the right moment for me to move to England.

“I’ve decided to come here after three years and I’m looking forward to starting training and seeing my team-mates.”

Jahanbakhsh admitted a move away from Holland was essential at the end of last season, and the 2017/18 Eredivisie top goalscorer highlighted the positive feeling he received when considering a move to the Seagulls.

“Brighton fans have always been there and I got good vibes from them. One of the main reasons that made me make this decision was the good feeling that I had about the club.

“Three years ago I didn’t know much about the club, but now I know a lot more. All of these reasons made me move to this amazing club.

“I was following the club’s games and results last season. The end of last season was a good time for me to move outside of the country.

“I decided to move and I was thinking a lot, asking people that I trust, and most of them were really positive about joining Brighton.

“I was busy with the games for Alkmaar last season, but outside of that I was following the Premier League and Brighton’s games.

The winger scored 21 goals and claimed 12 assists last season, and Jahanbakhsh is now focused on working hard for his new team-mates and manager, ahead of his debut season in the Premier League.

“I came here to help the team and be important for the team. It’s always been important for me, wherever I go, to do my best for the club and the fans.

“It’s exactly the same here. I’ve been counting the days until I came here for the signing day.

“Finally everything is done now and I can look forward to starting training, seeing the fans and going to the stadium to play games.

“We have some good players this season, and after speaking to the manager, I have a really good feeling about the tactics and the way the team plays.”

Albion fans can watch Alireza Jahanbakhsh's full exclusive interview above on Seagulls TV - supporters can sign up to the service by clicking here.