Brighton appoint Arturo Ruiz as women’s head coach after Vidosic exit

Brighton and Hove Albion have appointed Arturo Ruiz as their new women’s head coach following the departure of Dario Vidosic, BBC Sport reported on Friday. Ruiz, 29, has agreed a contract running until 2029 and will formally join the Women’s Super League club once his work permit has been completed.

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The announcement came only hours after Brighton confirmed Vidosic was leaving to pursue another opportunity, one week before the new league campaign. BBC Sport reported that a move to the United States is under consideration, with sources identifying National Women’s Soccer League club Angel City as the most likely destination, but no new appointment for Vidosic has been confirmed.

Ruiz moves from Real Sociedad, where he became head coach in July 2025 and led the team to third place in Spain’s Liga F. He previously began his senior managerial career with Atletico Madrid, guiding the club to a third-place league finish and qualification for the Women’s Champions League, before later taking charge of Granada.

Brighton women’s and girls’ managing director Zoe Johnson said Ruiz distinguished himself during the recruitment process. She cited his record in developing both teams and individual players, adding that the club would support him through the final preparations for the WSL season. His arrival gives Brighton little time for a transition before competitive football begins.

Vidosic joined Brighton from Melbourne City in 2024 and delivered a fifth-place WSL finish in his first season, the club’s best result in the competition. During 2025-26, Brighton recorded wins over Arsenal and Manchester City. They also reached the Women’s FA Cup final for the first time in May, extending the progress made during his two seasons in charge.

Brighton are scheduled to open their WSL campaign at home to Arsenal on Sunday, 6 September. Ruiz therefore inherits a side coming off notable domestic progress, but his immediate involvement depends on the work-permit process. The club has not stated precisely when that approval will be completed, leaving the timetable for his first match in charge unresolved.