Kirby ‘stressed’ by abrupt Vidosic exit from Brighton
Fran Kirby says Brighton’s late managerial change left her feeling stressed and disappointed, coming just days before the Women’s Super League season began. Head coach Dario Vidosic left on 28 August after leading the club to a first FA Cup final and a club-record fifth-place league finish, and Arturo Ruiz was appointed the same day.
Brighton lost their opener to Arsenal and went without a league win in their first four matches under Ruiz, before beating Charlton 5-1. Kirby said the squad had to adapt quickly to Ruiz’s approach, which aims to attack opponents more directly while keeping possession. Brighton next visit unbeaten champions Manchester City; Vidosic’s side had averaged more possession than all WSL teams except Arsenal, Chelsea and City.
- Kirby says Vidosic’s sudden exit left her stressed and disappointed.
- Brighton appointed Ruiz nine days before their season opener.
- A 5-1 win over Charlton offered signs of progress under Ruiz.