The top 5 players who have played for Chelsea and Brighton - Ranked
Chelsea face Brighton shortly, with several players who have represented both clubs potentially featuring in the line-up. The first Premier League game of the season at Stamford Bridge will see Brighton visit west London, with the Seagulls representing a club whose recruitment model has heavily influenced the approach adopted by the BlueCo Group.
To date, 24 men have made at least one senior appearance for both the Blues and the Seagulls; a complete list can be found at the bottom. Before we get to that, we've ranked the best six players to represent both Premier League clubs.
5 - Robert Sanchez
Sanchez joined Brighton at the age of 15 after beginning his youth career with Levante, making his Premier League debut in November 2020. He went on to make more than 80 appearances for the Seagulls, producing a number of impressive performances but also making costly errors during his time on the south coast.
A move to Chelsea in 2023, Sanchez started the opening game against Fulham but is now likely to fall down the pecking order following his costly error in that fixture and the arrival of Emi Martinez. A loan move or permanent transfer before the end of the season appears unlikely, with Sanchez instead expected to remain as part of the squad.
He has produced some strong performances in a Chelsea shirt, although this spot could arguably have gone to Billy Gilmour or Steve Sidwell. Both players, however, made a greater impact during their time at Brighton than they did at Chelsea, making Sanchez a more fitting choice for this particular list.
4 - Levi Colwill
Levi Colwill came through Chelsea’s academy before establishing himself as one of the club’s most promising young defenders, earning him an opportunity in the Premier League out on loan. He enjoyed a breakthrough loan spell at Brighton during the 2022/23 season, making 24 Premier League appearances and helping Roberto De Zerbi’s side secure European football.
His performances on the south coast showcased his composure, passing ability and defensive intelligence, convincing Chelsea to bring him back into the first-team squad. Since returning to Stamford Bridge, Colwill has become an increasingly important part of Chelsea’s defence, competing for a regular starting role and gaining valuable experience at the highest level. His versatility and potential have made him a key figure for the club.
3 - Marc Cucurella
Marc Cucurella joined Brighton from Getafe and quickly established himself as an important part of Graham Potter’s side. Operating primarily as a left-back or wing-back, his energy, defensive work rate and ability to contribute in possession made him one of Brighton’s standout performers.
He made 38 appearances during his only season at the Amex before earning a move to Chelsea in 2022. After initially struggling to replicate his Brighton form, Cucurella gradually became a more reliable and versatile member of the squad under Enzo Maresca.
Capable of playing across the left side and in midfield, his work rate and adaptability made him a valuable option. He went on to make 116 appearances for Chelsea, scoring important goals and helping the club win the Club World Cup.
His departure from Stamford Bridge for Real Madrid this summer has left a significant hole on Chelsea’s left flank, making the decision to sell him a surprising one.
2 - Joao Pedro
Joao Pedro joined through the Club World Championships with the Brazilian coming critical in their success, followed by an important season up top scoring 15 Premier League goals. He is expected to have a great season under Xabi Alonso with another former Seagull, Danny Wellbeck, providing competition as Chelsea compete for the title.
He was just as important for the Seagulls in his time, scoring 30 goals in 70 appearances that earned him a move to their rivals.
1 - Moises Caicedo
Moises Caicedo is the standout candidate for the number one spot, having developed into one of the Premier League’s leading midfielders.
His impressive performances at Brighton earned him a move to Chelsea in 2023, where he initially faced criticism before establishing himself as a key figure. Caicedo has since become the heartbeat of Chelsea’s midfield, consistently winning possession, covering huge distances and progressing the ball effectively.
His defensive intelligence and growing influence in possession have made him increasingly important to the team, with his performances now reflecting the quality that made him so highly rated at Brighton and now, at Chelsea.
