Brighton manager Dario Vidosic is leaving the Women's Super League club just a week before the start of the season "to pursue a new opportunity". It is a major blow for Brighton, who reached the Women's FA Cup final for the first time in the club's history in May under Vidosic. The Australian joined from Melbourne City in 2024 and signed a three-year deal as Brighton sought to close in on the WSL's top four.
In his first season in charge, Vidosic led them to a fifth-placed finish - their best in the WSL - and they recorded memorable wins over Arsenal and Manchester City in 2025-26. "I have loved my time at Albion and am proud of what we have achieved together," Vidosic said. "Leaving has been a difficult decision but I believe it is the right time for me and my family to begin a new chapter.
"I would like to thank the players, staff and supporters for their support throughout my time at the club and wish everyone associated with Albion every success." With a week to go before the new season, Brighton were being tipped as one of the club's capable of challenging WSL big hitters Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City and Manchester United for a top-four place. Reports in Spain, external suggest Arturo Ruiz - who has just left Real Sociedad - is lined up to be Vidosic's replacement at Brighton. Sources say Vidosic could be heading to the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) in the United States, with Angel City the most likely destination.
Brighton kick off their WSL season at home to Arsenal on Sunday, 6 September ( ). Find interviews and extra content on the BBC Women's Football Weekly feed I missed being valued as a footballer - Walti Brighton have taken big strides in recent seasons and the club have invested in the playing squad, so they will be gutted to lose Vidosic. He was brought in as a relatively unknown coach in Europe having started his post-playing career in Australia.
A two-year spell at Melbourne City showed his potential but since joining Brighton, Vidosic has quickly become one of the most respected coaches in England. His style of play has been exciting and creative, though it has meant Brighton have lacked consistency at times. However, they showed during his two seasons in charge that they were capable of taking on the WSL's giants and were awarded with an FA Cup final last year.
All signs pointed to a positive future as the club announced in April its plans for Europe's first purpose-built women's stadium, costing around £80m. They had attracted big-name players such as England's Euro 2022 winner Fran Kirby and this summer, Switzerland captain Lia Walti. But the timing of Vidosic's exit is a massive blow and while the plan was to kick on and close in on a top four spot, they must now undergo a managerial transition.
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