'Difficult decision' - Brighton boss explains sudden departure as Albion chief responds
Supporters of Brighton and Hove Albion have been left stunned after the women’s team manager announced his departure, a week before the start of the new season.
In a statement, the Sussex club confirmed that women's first-team head coach Dario Vidosic has left the club to ‘pursue a new opportunity’.
Vidosic – who joined from Melbourne City in 2024 – recently led Albion to the Women's FA Cup final for the first time in the club's history.
The Croatian-Australian coach said: "I have loved my time at the 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 in the future."
The news came unexpectedly as the Seagulls fine-tune their preparations for the new campaign. Brighton start their WSL season – at home again Arsenal – on Sunday, September 6.
Women's and girls' managing director Zoe Johnson said: "We would like to thank Dario for his contribution over the past two years.
"During his time with the club, he led us to our highest-ever WSL finish and our first Women's FA Cup final. We naturally are disappointed, but respect his decision to pursue a new challenge and wish him every success for the future.
"Our priority now is on recruiting our new head coach and continuing our preparation ahead of the start of the Women’s Super League season next weekend."
Here is how Albion fans have reacted to the news, on X (formerly Twitter):
– @son_of_one: “The timing isn't great, surely doing this before pre season would of been better. But I appreciate the good work he has done over the last couple of years and wish him the best.”
– @jamessmccarthy: “Absolutely gutted to see Dario go but wish him all the best going forward in the new opportunity.”
– @MikeKing14_: “Feels a bit poor that this has happened mere days before the season starts, however given how influential he has been in turning our women’s team around over the past few years I do wish him all the very best at his next club. Fingers crossed his successor is just as good!”
– @Brightonfan: “Thank you for everything Dario, you completely transformed our women team around and you have been part of that journey. But honestly it does feel that the timing is completely off and you left us in the mire, scrambling round looking for a new coach just before Arsenal!”