Brighton manager Dario Vidosic exits week before WSL season
Brighton have parted with head coach Dario Vidosic a week before the Women's Super League season, naming Arturo Ruiz as Brighton manager the same day. Vidosic left to pursue a new opportunity, with Angel City in the NWSL his likely destination, while Ruiz joins from Real Sociedad until 2029.
The club confirmed both moves on 28 August 2026, leaving Brighton scrambling to prepare for a campaign in which they were tipped to challenge for a top-four finish. For viewers tracking Streaming & TV Alerts, the timing raises immediate questions about broadcast schedules and how a new manager might affect Brighton's opening fixtures.
Key Takeaways
- Dario Vidosic stepped down as Brighton manager a week before the 2026-27 WSL season begins on 6 September.
- Arturo Ruiz, 29, was appointed on the same day from Real Sociedad on a contract until 2029, pending a work permit.
- Vidosic is believed to be heading to the United States, with NWSL side Angel City the most likely destination.
- Under Vidosic, Brighton reached fifth place and their first Women's FA Cup final in club history.
- Brighton open the season at home to Arsenal on Sunday, 6 September at 12:00 BST.
Why Did Brighton Manager Dario Vidosic Leave?
Brighton said Vidosic departed "to pursue a new opportunity." Sources cited by BBC Sport suggest a move to the United States is on the cards, with National Women's Soccer League club Angel City the most likely destination.
The Australian joined from Melbourne City in 2024 on a three-year deal as Brighton sought to close in on the WSL's top four. In two seasons, he led the club to a fifth-place finish—their best in the league—and memorable wins over Arsenal and Manchester City.
Most notably, Brighton reached the Women's FA Cup final for the first time in May. "Leaving has been a difficult decision but I believe it is the right time for me and my family to begin a new chapter," Vidosic said in a club statement.
Who Is Arturo Ruiz, Brighton's New Head Coach?
Ruiz, 29, arrives from Real Sociedad, where he had one year remaining on his contract after taking over in July 2025. His first managerial role came at Atletico Madrid, where he guided the team to third in Liga F and Women's Champions League qualification.
He later coached Granada CF before joining Real Sociedad, again finishing third in the league. Brighton women's and girls' managing director Zoe Johnson said Ruiz "quickly stood out" during recruitment and has a proven track record of developing teams and individuals.
Ruiz will join once his work permit is finalised, giving him only days to prepare before Brighton host Arsenal on 6 September.
How Will Vidosic's Exit Affect Brighton's WSL Season?
Despite the swift appointment, Vidosic's departure is a major blow. Brighton had invested heavily, signing England's Fran Kirby and Switzerland captain Lia Walti this summer, with several new arrivals having joined specifically to play under Vidosic's creative, attacking style.
The club announced plans in April for Europe's first purpose-built women's stadium, costing around £80m. With a week until kick-off, Brighton must now navigate a managerial transition while still targeting a top-four push against Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City and Manchester United.
BBC analysis noted Ruiz has a clear style of his own, but the late switch means Brighton are likely to be on the back foot at the start of a campaign they hoped would build momentum.
Where Can You Watch Brighton's WSL Opener?
Brighton kick off their WSL season at home to Arsenal on Sunday, 6 September at 12:00 BST.
Check our Streaming & TV Alerts hub for updates on where to watch Brighton's matches under their new manager as the season gets under way.