“The man is a genius” – Midfielder praises former Brighton coach, even as players often questioned his methods.

Former Brighton midfielder Jakub Moder has hailed Roberto De Zerbi as a “genius,” despite the Italian coach’s unconventional methods often leaving players confused.

Speaking to Voetbal International, Moder praised De Zerbi as the best manager he’s worked with, citing his tactical brilliance and intense training style. De Zerbi led Brighton from September 2022 to May 2024, guiding them to a historic sixth-place finish and Europa League qualification in his first season.

Although his second season was more difficult—impacted by injuries and European competition—his influence remains strong, especially on players like Moder.

“He was unlike anyone I’d ever met,” said Moder. “He shouted at us, pushed us hard, but you accepted it because he was so tactically sharp.”

Moder recalled De Zerbi’s introduction, where the manager warned players they might question his methods. “He told us, ‘I know it looks crazy now… I know you’re going to wonder what the hell we’re doing,’” Moder said.

Players often came back from long, repetitive training sessions bewildered by the intensity. “They’d ask, ‘What the f**k are we doing on that pitch?’” said Moder. But in the end, the results spoke for themselves. “We finished sixth and everyone wanted to play like Brighton. The man is a genius.”