Georginio Rutter says why he was ‘disappointed’ with himself during final season at Leeds United

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At the start of the month, most Leeds United fans would have been confident that Georginio Rutter would have been a Leeds player come the end of the summer window.

But fast forward until now and it shows just how quickly the transfer window can change things. The 22-year-old has joined Premier League side Brighton on a five-year deal, costing The Seagulls a £40m fee.

The France U21 star is back in the Premier League after a dismal first six months in the top tier with Leeds in which he failed to live up to his £35m club-record fee as the Yorkshire side were relegated in 22-23.

But after a wonderful 2023-24 campaign in which Rutter had a hand in 24 goals, the Frenchman finds himself back in England’s first division. Brighton activated a £40m release clause in his Leeds contract.

• READ MORE: Joe Rodon gave his verdict on Rutter’s move to Brighton on Saturday

Rutter explains why he was disappointed with himself at Leeds

Rutter won a place in The Championship Team of the Season for his enigmatic, heart-on-the-sleeve style performances. Constantly creating magic out of nothing, driving his Leeds side forward towards the top.

But it was not enough as Leeds fell at the final hurdle, losing to Southampton in the play-off final at Wembley. That has contributed to his exit, after a season in which he scored eight and created 16 more.

Speaking to Brighton’s site, Rutter said: “16 assists, it is a lot. I didn’t expect this beforehand. I scored only eight goals. I was disappointed last season because I think I can do better, and can score more than that.”

Rutter said he’d give his all for Leeds this season, now he’s gone

The effervescent striker is renowned for his colourful, off-pitch activities. Whether that be dabbling in music, owning race horses or even starting his own YouTube channel and he posted a video this month.

Rutter said in the video he would give his all to help Leeds achieve promotion, but now the club’s record signing has become Brighton’s most-expensive transfer as The Seagulls look to qualify for Europe.

“Unfortunately, it’s not what we wanted, but it’s not an end. After a rest, it’s time to get back to work, more determined than ever so next year will be a better season for me. I’ll be ready and give it my all.”