Brighton, UK, January 2, 2026 – In a move that’s sure to ignite the fanbase, Pascal Gross has officially returned to Brighton & Hove Albion.

The versatile Germany international, after an 18-month spell in the Bundesliga with Borussia Dortmund, has signed an 18-month deal until June 2027. For many, this feels less like a transfer and more like a homecoming. But can one player’s return truly reshape a club’s trajectory in the crucial second half of the season?

Gross rejoins Albion for undisclosed terms, marking a significant piece of transfer business as the January window opens. His departure to Dortmund in the summer of 2024 was met with mixed feelings, a testament to his immense contribution during his first stint. Now, a year and a half later, he’s back. It’s rare to see a player of his caliber return so swiftly, especially after featuring for a European giant like Dortmund and earning significant international caps.

During his initial seven seasons with Brighton, Gross became nothing short of an icon. Joining from Ingolstadt in 2017, he made 261 appearances, tallying an impressive 30 goals and 45 assists in 228 Premier League games.

He was instrumental in establishing Brighton & Hove Albion as a formidable Premier League side, helping them achieve their highest-ever league finishes and securing European qualification. His absence was certainly felt.

Head coach Fabian Hurzeler wasted no time expressing his delight: “We are really pleased to have Pascal back with us. He’s a fantastic player and someone I know well… Brighton fans know his attributes, but he brings great leadership qualities to the group.”

Hurzeler believes Gross’s experience and ability will be a “huge asset in the second half of the season.” This isn’t just about filling a gap; it’s about injecting proven quality and invaluable leadership back into the squad at a critical time.

His performances with Albion even earned him a long-awaited call-up to the Germany national team in 2023, where he has since amassed 16 caps and featured prominently at UEFA Euro 2024. This raises an interesting question: why would a German international, who just played in a major tournament and was at Borussia Dortmund, opt to return to his former club halfway through a season? Perhaps it speaks volumes about the connection he has with Brighton, or perhaps a clear desire for guaranteed playing time in a familiar system.

Regardless of the underlying reasons, Gross’s return is a massive boost for Brighton & Hove Albion. It brings back a fan favorite, a proven performer, and a natural leader just when they need it most.

Can he rekindle the magic and help propel the Seagulls to new heights, or at least stabilize their campaign? The answer will undoubtedly unfold on the pitch, but for now, the mood on the south coast is one of undeniable optimism.