Igor Julio says one of the major pulls of signing for Albion was Roberto De Zerbi’s team’s style.
The 25-year-old goes as far as comparing it to Barcelona’s approach.
“I chose Brighton because I like the possession based football, the amount of time spent on the ball," he explained. "It’s like the way Barcelona played; so many touches, making the opponents run a lot.
“When the opportunity arose, I knew that I wanted to play for a team like that. Possession football, keeping hold of the ball and combining with each other. That was something that really caught my attention.
“It’s the way I have always wanted to play so it’s a perfect combination. It’s happened at the right time for me to continue evolving as a player here at a new club.”
The Brazilian joined us from Serie A side Fiorentina in July, where he’d been touted for a move to English football.
“They always told me in Italy that I was suited to the Premier League, they told me I should play in the Premier League because of how physical I was.
“I always wanted to play in England, that’s why I came here.”
Despite nerves about how he’d settle into English football, Igor has been pleased with his first few months here.
“Things have gone better than I expected. I always dreamt of playing here in England but I was always a bit afraid about how I would find it adapting and what it would be like living in England, but I am very happy here.
“I feel at home already. Everyone has welcomed me which has helped me so much to adapt as quickly as possible. I am very happy and feel good here.
“All the people here, everyone that works at the club have helped me feel at ease and made me feel at home very quickly.”