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Brighton have been hit by the unexpected exit of manager Dario Vidosic just a week before the start of the new Women’s Super League season. The Australian coach leaves after a landmark spell in charge, during which the Seagulls recorded their best-ever fifth-place finish in the WSL and reached their first Women’s FA Cup final, creating a major gap ahead of the opening match.

The Australian tactician has ended the three-year contract he signed when he arrived from Melbourne City in 2024. His sudden departure is a major setback for the club after he oversaw a historic season that included a first-ever Women’s FA Cup final appearance as well as notable wins over Arsenal and Manchester City last term. Brighton’s leadership is now in a race against time to name a replacement and keep alive their hopes of competing near the top end of the WSL.

Vidosic has said the emotional decision was taken so that he could move into the next phase of his coaching career with his family.

Confirming his departure in an official club statement, Vidosic said: “I have loved my time at Albion and am proud of what we have achieved together. 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.”

As per reports from Spanish publication Marca, former Real Sociedad manager Arturo Ruiz has become the leading candidate to fill the vacancy on the south coast.

At the same time, sources suggest Vidosic is set to move to the United States to take charge of NWSL club Angel City. The abrupt managerial change presents an immediate challenge to a squad seen as capable of unsettling the established WSL top four of Chelsea, City, Arsenal and Manchester United.

Brighton now face the urgent task of refocusing the dressing room before a demanding WSL opener at home against title hopefuls Arsenal on Sunday, September 6. Handling such a fixture in the middle of tactical disruption will require strong defensive discipline from the senior players if they are to avoid losing early ground. The way they come through that opener will offer an early indication of Brighton’s resilience before the domestic schedule becomes even more intense.