Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler insists new boy Diego Gomez will need “a bit of time” after his arrival from Inter Miami.
The Seagulls announced on December 10 that midfielder Gomez would join them on New Year's Day after playing alongside Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez in the US. The 21-year-old Paraguayan international was one of the best players in the league during the 2024 season but has left his superstar teammates in Florida behind as he makes the jump to the Premier League.
Ahead of Saturday's home game against Arsenal, Hurzeler said: “He now has two or three weeks' holiday because the season is over in the MLS (Major League Soccer). So he definitely needs some time. But I'm sure he's in great shape.
“He's been training hard during his holidays (from) what I've heard and I'm really looking forward to seeing him on the pitch as soon as possible.”
Another player not eligible this weekend is former Gunners striker Danny Welbeck, who has been out since November with an ankle problem.
“I can't say a clear schedule for when he'll be back,” Hurzeler said of the 34-year-old, according to The Argus. “It could be next week, it could be very soon. But it could take another two, three, four weeks. He's in no pain, so that's very good. And he's back on the field. But we have to take it day by day and hopefully he can be back soon.”
Adam Webster is in line for a return after not featuring since October and it is hoped fellow defender Pervis Estupinan will be available after missing the 2-2 draw at Aston Villa on Monday.
Brighton have also sidelined Evan Ferguson, Ferdi Kadioglu, Jack Hinshelwood and James Milner.
Hurzeler's side currently sit tenth in the table after a seven-match winless run that saw five draws, including in each of their last three matches. They also drew 1-1 against Mikel Arteta's Arsenal in August, who are currently on a three-game winning streak and second in the table.
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