In the ever-changing world of football, few players manage to etch their names into the history of a club with the same grace and influence as Pascal Gross did at the Seagulls As he bids farewell to Albion to join his boyhood club Borussia Dortmund, I look back on his incredible journey and the moments that cemented his legacy as one of the club’s legends.

The Arrival: A New Dawn for Brighton

Pascal Gross joined the Seagulls in the summer of 2017 from Bundesliga side FC Ingolstadt, becoming one of Chris Hughton’s first additions as the club prepared for their debut season in the Premier League. His arrival marked the beginning of a new chapter for Albion, and it didn’t take long for him to make an impact. On the opening day of the 2017/18 season, the German midfielder made his Premier League debut against Manchester City, showcasing glimpses of the creativity and vision that would become his trademarks.

The First Goal: A Historic Moment

Gross’ first goal for Brighton came in a thrilling 3-1 victory over West Bromwich Albion on September 9, 2017. Scoring twice and assisting the third, he played a pivotal role in securing Brighton’s first-ever Premier League win. This match not only highlighted his scoring prowess but also his ability to orchestrate play, earning him instant hero status among the Brighton faithful.

The 2017/18 Season: Player of the Year

The 2017/18 season was nothing short of remarkable for Gross. He finished the campaign with seven goals and eight assists, a contribution that saw him deservedly named Brighton’s Player of the Year. His contributions were vital in helping the club secure their Premier League status, and his influence on the pitch was undeniable. Gross’s vision, passing accuracy, and set-piece mastery became a cornerstone of Brighton’s play, making him one of the most respected midfielders in the league.

Memorable Goals and Assists

Over the years, Gross delivered numerous memorable moments for Brighton fans. His stunning free-kick against Southampton in the 2018/19 season, his coolly converted penalty against Manchester United in a famous 3-2 victory, and his crucial goals against rivals Crystal Palace are just a few highlights. Each of these moments underscored his knack for stepping up in critical situations, often turning the tide in Brighton’s favour.

The Leader: Beyond the Stats

Gross’ influence extended beyond his technical abilities. Known for his work ethic, intelligence, and leadership on and off the pitch, he was a model professional. His experience and calm demeanour provided stability to a relatively young Brighton squad, and his mentorship helped nurture emerging talents within the team.

The Final Season: Leaving on a High

As the Seagulls continued to establish themselves as a regular Premier League side, Gross remained a pivotal figure. His final season with the Seagulls saw him reach new milestones, including his 150th Premier League appearance for the club, and his goal in the 3-1 defeat to West Ham on 26 August 2023 saw him become the Seagulls all-time record goal scorer. In his seven-years at Albion, the 33-year-old made 261 appearances, scoring 32 goals and racking up 52 assists. Though his departure is bittersweet, it comes at a time when Brighton are in a strong position, thanks in no small part to his contributions over the years.

Thank You, Pascal

As Gross embarks on this new chapter with German giants Dortmund, Seagulls fans will forever cherish his time at the club. His impact on and off the pitch has been profound, and his contributions will be remembered for years to come. It is just a shame he has received the proper send-off he deserves, but I’m sure I echo the voices of many Albion fans when I say, thank you Der Kaiser and good luck with your future endeavour’s and do not once a Seagulls, always a Seagull!