“Hopefully” – Brighton player makes Real Madrid admission but focus firmly on Seagulls

Brighton fans have quickly seen why their club were willing to spend €22m (£19m) on Chema Andrés this summer.

The midfielder has become a regular under Fabian Hürzeler and is already making his mark in the Premier League. His goal against Arsenal, for example, has helped the Seagulls climb to third in the table, and Chema is enjoying how things are going.

The 21-year-old has now spoken about his start in England, the pressure that came with his transfer fee and even a possible Real Madrid return one day.

Brighton’s €22m investment and life under Hürzeler

Speaking to COPE’s Tiempo de Juego, Chema was asked about Brighton paying €22m (£19m) to sign him from Stuttgart.

“It’s a huge responsibility, but I’m also grateful for it, because the club you’re joining values you and believes they see potential in you,” he said.

The midfielder had already experienced football in Spain and Germany before Brighton came calling. Unsurprisingly, he’s noticed a difference since arriving in the Premier League. Chema described English football as more dynamic and physical than both the Bundesliga and La Liga.

His adaptation has also been helped by Hürzeler, who has clearly made a big impression on him.

“He’s an incredible coach, obsessed with individual work for each player,” Chema said.

There’s one part of English life taking a little longer to master. Chema joked that driving on the left requires so much concentration that he can’t even put music on in the car yet.

On the pitch, though, he seems rather more comfortable. Asked about what he enjoys doing during games, the Spaniard had a pretty simple answer.

“I really enjoy a good ball recovery, especially when it’s against a good player.”

Real Madrid return can wait

Chema came through Real Madrid’s academy before leaving for Stuttgart in 2025. Madrid retained 50% of his rights at that point. That connection ended when Brighton bought him, with the Spanish club receiving their share of the transfer.

Naturally, Chema was asked whether he would like to play for Real Madrid again at some stage.

“Hopefully I’ll return in the future, but right now I’m not thinking about that,” he said.

It’s an understandable ambition for someone developed at Valdebebas, although there’s little there for Brighton to worry about right now.

Chema has only just arrived in England and his attention appears firmly on what he’s doing with the Seagulls. He’s also currently away with Spain’s U21s. Chema is suspended for their first game against San Marino but can face Romania in Ibiza.

Asked about Spain’s chances of qualifying, he wasn’t short of confidence.

“I’d say 200%. We depend on ourselves.”

Fair to say Brighton’s €22m (£19m) summer signing already sounds very comfortable with the football side of life in England. The driving may take a little longer though.