Brighton & Hove Albion have named Arturo Ruiz as the new head coach after Dario Vidosic’s abrupt tenure ended a week before the start of the 2026/27 Women’s Super League season.
Arturo Ruiz, 29, has joined Brighton from Real Sociedad, and most recently saw Sociedad get defeated 5-2 against Chelsea in the UEFA Women’s Champions League.
According to sources, Ruiz had informed Sociedad about Brighton’s interest, and the club tried to convince him to stay, but it appears that didn’t quite pan out. He also previously managed Atlético Madrid.
Zoe Johnson, women’s and girls’ managing director at Brighton, said: “We are delighted to welcome Arturo to the club.
“During our recruitment process, he quickly stood out. He has a proven track record of developing teams and individuals.
“We have confidence in his ability to continue to drive this team forward, and he will have our full support as we make our final preparations for the start of the new WSL season.”
Vidosic cut short a three-year deal upon first arriving in 2024 from Melbourne City. Under his tenure, the team reached a club-high 5th position in his first season and also led them to their first FA Cup final last season, but unfortunately lost 4-0 to Manchester City.
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.”
On Vidosic’s departure, 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.”
According to a few sources, Vidosic has attracted potential interest from the NWSL side, Angel City FC and the Italian side, Juventus.
