‘It hurts’ – Yankuba Minteh makes Brighton transfer demand one year on from £33m Newcastle United move

Yankuba Minteh has spoken candidly about Brighton’s 2024/25 campaign, reflecting on a season that fell short of expectations despite showing flashes of promise.

One year on from his move to Newcastle United, which quickly transitioned into a loan spell at Brighton, the young winger finds himself at a pivotal point in his development.

His words reflect not only personal disappointment but also a desire to push the club forward with urgency and determination.

Looking back on the year, Minteh described the season as a mix of highs and lows. He acknowledged that the team produced moments of quality and played attractive football at times, but ultimately failed to achieve their main objective.

The squad had set their sights on European qualification, aiming to build on previous successes and cement their status among England’s elite. Falling short of that goal, he admitted, was difficult to accept—particularly considering the depth of talent within the squad.

The emotions ran deep in the dressing room as the reality of their league position sank in. According to Minteh, there were moments toward the end of the season where the players held internal meetings and committed to finishing strong.

Despite those efforts, key points were lost in critical moments—an issue that proved costly. It wasn’t due to a lack of belief or ambition, but rather a failure to maintain composure and consistency when it mattered most.

Yet, in the face of that disappointment, Minteh insists the group remains hungry and focused on taking the next step.

He emphasized that Brighton must improve both tactically and mentally to return to European competition. Game management, particularly in scenarios where they held the lead, needs significant attention.

Minteh acknowledged that the manager has consistently challenged the squad to sharpen their focus in every fixture—not just in the marquee matches.

This mental discipline, he says, will be critical if Brighton want to become a team that competes with the best week in, week out.

Beyond his reflections, Minteh didn’t shy away from pointing out where the squad requires reinforcements. With the transfer window looming, he voiced a desire for new signings who bring more than just technical ability.

He specifically mentioned the need for added depth in midfield—players who can help control tempo during tense moments—and an experienced forward to diversify the attacking options.

His vision isn’t just about flashy signings, but about individuals who possess the hunger and mental strength to withstand the demands of Premier League football.

Minteh passionately underlined that technical skills alone aren’t enough to succeed in England’s top flight. Players must demonstrate character and resilience in difficult circumstances.

He pointed out that those who hide in tough moments are unlikely to survive at this level. It’s the fighters—the ones who refuse to be overwhelmed—that Brighton needs in order to transition from potential to performance.

For Minteh, it’s clear that the squad must adopt a winning mentality, and the upcoming season presents an opportunity to prove that they’ve learned from their missteps.

His comments come at a time when Brighton are striving to establish themselves not just as a club that flirts with European football, but as one that consistently challenges for it.

Since their promotion alongside Newcastle in 2017, the Seagulls have transformed from relegation candidates to a well-respected side capable of top-half finishes. In three of the last four seasons, they’ve finished inside the Premier League’s top nine—a sign of clear progress.

However, Minteh’s words suggest that inside the club, there’s no sense of complacency. The expectations are higher now, and with that comes pressure to evolve, adapt, and rise again.

The winger’s honesty offers a rare window into the mindset of a player who has quickly grown into a vocal presence. Despite his youth, Minteh has shown a maturity beyond his years—a trait that will no doubt serve him well as he continues to carve out a future in English football.

His determination to push for more, to raise standards, and to call for players with the grit to match their talent reflects a mindset aligned with the ambitions of a club on the rise.

Brighton’s leadership now faces a crucial summer. Recruitment decisions must align with the expectations of players like Minteh who are ready to challenge for more.

The pieces are there—youth, talent, structure—but it’s the execution in key moments, both on and off the pitch, that will determine whether next season finally delivers on the promise that has been building. As Minteh said best: they’ll go again—stronger, sharper, and with a point to prove.