‘Handing in his resignation’ – Brighton fans explode at Fabian Hurzeler after ‘dreadful’ scenes at Liverpool

Brighton & Hove Albion suffered a humiliating 3-0 defeat to Liverpool in the FA Cup fourth round at Anfield on February 14, 2026, intensifying the crisis surrounding manager Fabian Hurzeler. Furious fans have taken to social media, with some calling for the 32-year-old German to "hand in his resignation" after the dreadful scenes unfolded.[3][4]

Curtis Jones opened the scoring just before halftime, followed by Dominik Szoboszlai's strike early in the second half. Mohamed Salah sealed the rout from the penalty spot, a decision Hurzeler vehemently disputed, branding it "never ever a penalty" in his post-match press conference.[3][4]

In the presser, a dejected Hurzeler admitted Brighton started well, controlled possession with good patterns, and created big chances—including two late in the first half and one from Lewis Dunk early in the second—but failed to convert. "Moments decided the game in the wrong direction," he said, praising Liverpool's clinical finishing while stressing his side's need for realism amid their poor form: "We are not in a good moment... keep working harder, show personality, stick together."[3][4]

The loss compounds Brighton's woes: just one win in 13 Premier League games, a six-match league winless streak after a 1-0 defeat at Aston Villa, and 14th place—seven points above relegation but eight behind seventh-placed Brentford.[1][2] Hurzeler is now the heavy favorite to be the next Premier League manager sacked, with odds slashed to 11/4 following Sean Dyche's dismissal at Nottingham Forest. Fan frustration boils over his decisions, though club sources insist his position isn't immediately under threat ahead of tough fixtures against Arsenal, Brentford, Sunderland, and Nottingham Forest.[1][2]

Despite backing from key figures and a contract until 2027, speculation grows that Hurzeler—admired across Europe—may depart by next season. An FA Cup run offered respite, but this capitulation has poured fuel on the fire, with supporters exploding online: "Dreadful tactics," "He's lost the plot," and demands for his immediate exit.[1][2][3]

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