The current Albion boss said his club are looking forward to seeing the Italian at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
De Zerbi makes his home debut as Spurs boss as the Seagulls visit today (5.30pm).
He made an emotional exit from the Amex at the end of the 2023-24 season, with Hurzeler taking the role soon after,
Hurzeler said: “When I started here, we had some messages, some phone calls.
“I congratulated him for what he achieved and then it was more about getting an understanding of the players, the environment and how things are working here.
“I think everyone who worked with him is looking forward to seeing him at the weekend.
“He deserves the praise, but we will both put the focus on trying to win the game.”
Hurzeler visited Albion’s training ground while he was St Pauli coach, thanks to his friendship with Pascal Gross.
He saw how De Zerbi works and watched his side beat Spurs 4-2 as well as attending a draw at Crystal Palace.
Hurzeler said: “It was very nice that he welcomed me into this environment and I still appreciate it.
“This time helped me to understand the challenges here, how the club is working, how everything goes.
“Therefore, when I started here as coach, looking back to these two or three days, they were quite helpful, although I never thought then that I might one day be head coach here.
“Overall it was very important to have this exchange.”