But he made it clear he wants to beat the Seagulls today.
De Zerbi makes his home debut as Tottenham Hotspur head coach against the club he took into Europe with a best-ever sixth place finish in the 2022-23 season.
Albion are now looking to emulate that in the coming weeks.
They can increase Spurs’ relegation if they get a result in North London today.
De Zerbi still has many fans among the Albion support and is likely to be applauded by them today if the opportunity arises.
He told his Friday afternoon press conference: “It was a magic place for me. It was a magic atmosphere with the players, relationship with the players.
“They are like my children because the relationship is so close.
“Danny Welbeck, Pascal Gross, Jason Steele, (Adam) Webster, (Joel) Veltman, Lewis Dunk – a lot of great memories but I want to win tomorrow for sure.”
De Zerbi and Hurzeler spoke after the latter was appointed as Albion boss.
Hurzeler has hailed the huge impact his predecessor had at the club.
De Zerbi said: “Fabian is a great coach. He is doing very well.
“I love Brighton. I love my former players.
“I am grateful to Tony Bloom, to Paul Barber, to all players and people working in this club.
“There are a lot of very good players but Fabian is working very well and it is credit to him what they are doing.”