The rapid rise of a former art dealer to Europe’s hottest young manager

Fabian Hurzeler has turned Brighton’s fortunes around after a difficult spell last season, when supporters booed him following a defeat by rivals Crystal Palace. Eight months later, Brighton are third in the Premier League after wins over Arsenal and Aston Villa, and Hurzeler is being discussed as a possible target for bigger clubs.

Appointed at 31 as the youngest permanent manager in Premier League history, Hurzeler has won 11 of 18 top-flight matches during the current run. His coaching career began at 23 as player-manager of German fifth-tier club Pipinsried; he also sold art to support himself, but was dismissed for spending too much time watching football. Brighton gave him a long-term contract before the end of last season and £150m to spend on summer signings.