Kaoru Mitoma

Mitoma (hamstring) remains sidelined but could return to action before the next international break, according to coach Fabian Hurzeler, per BBC Sussex Sport. "Kaoru, I hope for before the international break."

Analysis: Mitoma continues to make progress in his recovery from a hamstring injury that has kept him sidelined since the 2025/26 campaign. The Japanese winger is approaching the final stages of his rehabilitation, although he has yet to receive clearance to return to competitive action. Coach Hurzeler's latest comments provide a more encouraging outlook, with Brighton hoping to reintegrate Mitoma into the squad before the upcoming international break. The attacker recorded three goals and one assist across 25 Premier League appearances, including 19 starts, last season. Once fully fit, Mitoma will look to challenge for playing time on the left flank, where Maxim De Cuyper has been featuring during his absence.

Oct 9, 2026

Nearing return, not yet fit

Mitoma (hamstring) is nearing a return to action but is still not fit enough to play, according to manager Fabian Hurzeler, per Darren Howard of Sussex Express. "We have Kaoru getting closer. Not fit yet, but they're definitely getting closer, and hopefully we'll see them soon back in the squad."

Analysis: Mitoma has been working for a return for quite a while now, having played his last match in the 2025/26 campaign due to his hamstring injury. However, it appears he is now getting close to the final stages and can almost play again, just having managed his rehabilitation carefully. The forward will fight for starting time on the left flank once fit, as he was a player who started in 19 of his 25 appearances last season while bagging three goals and an assist. However, Maxim De Cuyper currently holds that role, and Yankuba Minteh (leg) is nearing a return to action.