International·5 min read·Laura Ríos

Arturo Ruiz is the new Brighton coach

Brighton have appointed Arturo Ruiz as their new women's boss following the extraordinary exit of Dario Vidocic.

Arturo Ruiz is the new Brighton coach

Arturo Ruiz is the new Brighton coach

According to Bbc.

Background

Arturo Ruiz has had success at Atletico Madrid and Real Sociedad in his managerial journey. He will face new challenges for Brighton in the WSL, and the team's leading players, such as Fran Kerby and Leah Valdy, will have the opportunity to improve under his guidance.

Why this matters

Arturo Ruiz has been appointed as the new women's head coach at WSL club Brighton in a key move for the future development of the team. Following the departure of Dario Vidic, Ruiz will use his managerial experience to create opportunities to improve the team's performance.

Key Points

  • Arturo Ruiz is the new Brighton coach.
  • Brighton have appointed Arturo Ruiz as their new women's boss following the extraordinary departure of Dario Vidocic.
  • Arturo Ruiz named Brighton boss after shock Dario Vidosic exit - BBC Sport.

Brighton and Hove Albion have appointed Arturo Ruiz as their new women's boss following the unceremonious departure of Dario Vidocic. Ruiz, 29, has signed a contract until 2029 and will remain with the Women's Super League (WSL) club until her work permit expires. Behind the start of the new season came reports confirming that Vidosic had stepped down as manager. Brighton said she had left in search of a new opportunity and was said to be heading to Angel City in the US National Women's Soccer League.

Ruiz was appointed manager at Real Sociedad in July 2025. She earned her first managerial position at Atlético Madrid and guided them to third place in Liga F there, qualifying for the Women's Champions League. He then moved to Granada CF and then became manager of Real Sociedad, where they again finished third in the league.

"We welcome Arturo to the club," said Zoe Johnson, Brighton's women's and girls' manager. "As we prepare the documents, he appears to be diverse. He has a proven track record of developing teams and individuals. We are confident in his ability to advance our team."

Vidosic, who joined from Melbourne City in 2024, is a major shock for Brighton after seeing them struggle to a close fourth place finish in the WSL. Victories over Arsenal and Manchester City in 2025-26, along with impressive wins in the FA Cup final, guided Brighton to a 5th-place finish in his first season.

"I have enjoyed my time at Albion and am proud of what we have achieved together," said Vidosik. "Leaving has been a difficult decision but I believe it is time to start a new chapter for my family. I would like to thank the players, staff and supporters who have supported me during my time."

With just ten days to go until the start of the new season, Brighton were expected to find themselves in a tight spot against WSL giants Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City and Manchester United. They open the WSL season against Arsenal at home on 6 September (12:00 BST).

Image

Brighton have made huge strides over the last few seasons and have been trying to add flair overall, so a loss for Vidosi would be a huge blow. He has become the most recognized coach in Europe.

Vidosic joined Brighton in 2024 from Melbourne City and became one of the most respected coaches in the WSL. Although his style of play was very interesting and creative, it sometimes lacked consistency for Brighton.

However, he showed his ability to take on the giants of the WSL as he went to an FA Cup final in two seasons.

Brighton's future looked more certain as they announced plans to build Europe's first women's stadium for £80 million. They have attracted big boys like Euro 2022 winners Fran Gibry.

But the timing of Vidosic's departure was a major shock, and a managerial change was necessitated.

The new additions will be welcome on Vidocic's terms, but Ruiz should work well with the new team if he comes into his own. With the start of the WSL season just days away, Brighton are expected to be short-handed for the foreseeable future.

What happens next

Arturo Ruiz will join Brighton pending a work permit to serve as their new coach in the WSL. Before the start of the team's new season, he will develop the team's plans and focus on improving the players' skills.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Arturo Ruiz?

Arturo Ruiz is a 29-year-old coach who has been appointed as Brighton and Hove Albion's new women's head coach.

Why did Vidocic quit?

Brighton have announced that Dario Vidosic has left in search of new opportunities.

When did Arturo Ruiz join Brighton?

Arturo Ruiz has signed a contract until 2029.

What are the changes in Brighton?

Brighton have appointed Arturo Ruiz as their new manager following the departure of Dario Vidosic.

What is Arturo Ruiz's previous experience?

Arturo Ruiz has been manager at Atletico Madrid and Real Sociedad, where he guided them to third place in Liga F.

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Teams

Brighton & Hove AlbionReal SociedadAtletico MadridGranada CFMelbourne City

Players

Arturo RuizDario VidosicFran KirbyLia Walti

Leagues

Superliga Femenina

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