Totally Ungrateful: “I played in the Premier League with Leeds United but it was not a good moment for me” Former Leeds United Ace that made a shocking deadline Move to PL side slams Leeds overall EPL performance .
Georginio Rutter has acknowledged that his time in the Premier League with Leeds United was not a “good moment” for him, following his full debut for Brighton last weekend.
The French forward joined Brighton in a £40m move this past August, after an impressive season in the Championship under Daniel Farke at Leeds. Rutter’s eight goals and, more notably, 16 assists in all competitions established him as one of the most dangerous attacking players in the league, prompting Brighton to activate his release clause during the summer transfer window.
His form last season was a stark contrast to his debut campaign at Elland Road, where he was part of a struggling Leeds side that was relegated from the Premier League. After joining from Hoffenheim in the January transfer window, Rutter made just 11 Premier League appearances, scoring his first goal only after Leeds had been relegated.
Rutter made his first start for Brighton in their goalless draw with Ipswich Town last weekend, having previously made two substitute appearances. He admitted that the situation at Brighton is quite different from his time at Leeds in 2023, but he is determined not to let his hefty transfer fee impact his performances.
“When I was at Leeds, the Premier League felt different,” Rutter told BBC Radio Sussex. “I didn’t play much, and it wasn’t a great time for me. Now, things are different. We have a strong team and a great atmosphere.
“It was important for my confidence to start, and I enjoyed it. We’re disappointed with the result, but we’re still unbeaten, and we need to take the positives. I know people talk about the price, but I just try to forget about it and focus on enjoying my football.
“The manager, the staff, and all the players understand there’s some adaptation needed. I received a warm welcome when I arrived. Carlos Baleba is a very talented player, and I often speak with him and Simon Adingra, as we all speak French. I’m working on improving my English and communicating with everyone.”