Brighton have appointed former Australia international Dario Vidosic as their new head coach.
The 37-year-old joins the Women’s Super League side from Melbourne City, where he led the A-League Women side to the Premiers Plate and qualification for the inaugural AFC Women’s Champions League.
He has agreed a contract until 2027 and succeeds Mikey Harris, who had served as interim Brighton boss since February 2024.
Zoe Johnson, managing director of women’s and girls’ football at Brighton, said: “From the start of the process to appoint our new head coach Dario was someone who caught our eye as a young coach with a progressive outlook.
Welcome, Dario! 👋
We are pleased to confirm that Dario Vidosic is to become our new women’s first team head coach. Once his work permit is processed, he will come to the UK to begin preparations for the new season with the squad. 🤝
— Brighton & Hove Albion Women (@BHAFCWomen) July 10, 2024
“He has a playing style and philosophy that aligns with how we want Brighton and Hove Albion teams to play. We are really excited to start working with Dario to prepare for the upcoming WSL season.”
Vidosic will join his new side in the UK when his work permit is cleared.
As a player, the Croatia-born attacking midfielder spent time with Brisbane Roar, Melbourne City and Adelaide United and had stints in Germany with Duisburg, Nurnberg and Armenia Bielefeld.
He also played in New Zealand with Wellington Phoenix and Chinese club Liaoning, Indian side ATK and Swiss side FC Sion. He won 23 caps for Australia between 2009 and 2014.
Brighton technical director David Weir added, “Dario is an individual who demonstrates a capacity to support players to develop and improve which is fundamental to our approach at the club.
“His leadership and performances at Melbourne City were transformative during his time at the club and we fully believe he will help us take a significant step towards our vision of being a top four WSL club.”
Vidosic’s new charges include England international Fran Kirby, who last week signed with the Seagulls on a free transfer after leaving Chelsea.
His staff will include newly-appointed assistant head coach Chris Roberts, who joins Brighton from Everton, where he had been assistant manager.
