Newly signed Nigerian winger Zadok Yohanna has resumed training with Brighton & Hove Albion ahead of the 2026/27 season after the club reportedly decided against sending him out on loan.
The decision comes amid speculation that the 18-year-old could be temporarily moved to Belgian side Royale Union Saint-Gilloise, a club within Brighton owner Tony Bloom’s football network.
However, Brighton have opted to keep the Nigerian youngster at the Amex Stadium as part of their first-team plans.
First-Team Plans Under Hürzeler
One of the key reasons behind the decision is manager Fabian Hürzeler’s belief that Yohanna is ready to begin adapting immediately to the demands of Premier League football.
Rather than gaining experience elsewhere, Brighton want the winger to learn within their own environment, train alongside senior internationals, and accelerate his development under the club’s coaching staff.
Included in Pre-Season Programme
Yohanna has already reported for pre-season training and is expected to be part of Brighton’s preparations for the new campaign.
His inclusion in the club’s pre-season schedule suggests Brighton intend to closely assess him against senior opposition before making any future decisions regarding his playing time.
Major Investment Demands Patience
Brighton also have a significant financial stake in the teenager’s development.
The club reportedly beat competition from Premier League rivals including Chelsea, Manchester City and Newcastle United to secure his signature from Swedish giants AIK.
The transfer, valued at around £21.5 million, made Yohanna one of the most expensive young African players of his generation and a record sale for the Swedish club.
From Kaduna to the Premier League, Yohanna’s rise has been remarkable.
The winger developed at Kaduna-based Ikon Allah Academy before moving to Sweden, where his pace, dribbling ability and direct attacking style quickly attracted European attention.
After registering five goals and four assists in 18 senior appearances for AIK, Brighton moved swiftly to secure his services on a contract running until 2031.
By keeping Yohanna in the first-team setup rather than loaning him out, Brighton are signalling their belief that the Nigerian teenager could play a role sooner rather than later in Hürzeler’s evolving squad.
The coming pre-season fixtures will provide the first indication of how highly the club rates one of Nigeria’s most exciting emerging talents.
