Dario Vidosic has followed in the footsteps of an Australian legend after the Liberty A-League Premiership-winning boss left Melbourne City to become head coach of Women’s Super League (WSL) side Brighton and Hove Albion.
Vidosic has landed a top job in England’s WSL after guiding City to the Premier’s Plate and a Grand Final appearance while securing qualification for the inaugural AFC Women’s Champions League in his first full season at the helm.
The 37-year-old becomes the second City coach to progress from the club’s women’s setup to the WSL after Joe Montemurro was lured to England’s top flight by powerhouse Arsenal in 2017.
Montemurro, who oversaw an historic unbeaten season at the helm of City, guided the Gunners to the WSL title in 2018-19 before winning a history-making treble at Juventus in 2021-22. He is now in charge of arguably the biggest team in women’s football – Lyon.
“It’s a bittersweet moment for me to embark on this exciting new challenge after the incredible two seasons I’ve shared with this team. Winning the Premier’s Plate this season and qualifying for the inaugural AFC Women’s Champions League is something I will never forget,” Vidosic said.
“I leave behind a really special group of players and staff that I’m confident will continue to achieve great things.
“From my time as a player, through to a head coach, I’m extremely grateful for the support I have enjoyed during my time at City and wish the team and the club every success going forward.”
Vidosic – a 23-time Socceroo who played for Brisbane Roar, Adelaide United, Western Sydney Wanderers, Wellington Phoenix and City in the A-Leagues having gone abroad with the likes of Nurnberg and Sion – took charge of Melbourne City’s Liberty A-League side after his father Rado was appointed the Isuzu UTE A-League boss.
City flourished with Dario Vidosic at the helm as his exciting brand of football resulted in a first Premiership since 2020.
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The Australian moves to Brighton to permanently replace Melissa Phillips, who was sacked in February.
Vidosic will not be the only Aussie at the club, with Matildas defender and former Sydney FC star Charlize Rule playing for the Seagulls.
Brighton finished ninth in the WSL in 2023-24.
“Dario brought an exceptional culture to our team this season, unlike anything I’ve experienced in my many years in sport,” said City CEO Brad Rowse.
“We displayed some phenomenal football, but it was the team comradery, the togetherness and the attitude of this group that stood out most, and that’s a testament to Dario’s leadership.
“Although we’re disappointed to lose a Head Coach of Dario’s calibre, we value the importance of our staff and players taking these opportunities, and we’ll continue to provide a platform that enables those in our environment to thrive, succeed and progress in their respective careers.”
Vidosic is the first Aussie head coach in the WSL since Montemurro left Arsenal at the end of 2020-21, though Aaron D’Antino has been working as an assistant coach for the Gunners since 2018.
Director of football Michael Petrillo added: “Dario epitomises the values of our club, demonstrating a commitment to excellence, incredible understanding of the City style of play and a relentless pursuit of continued development and success.
“His achievements with us highlight why he is so highly regarded not only internally, but also across the globe.
“To stand out as a candidate for one of the biggest clubs in England is a testament to his leadership, achievements, and the style of football the team has displayed under his guidance.
“Dario is already an exceptional coach, and he has all the qualities needed to become one of the world’s best one day. We wish him every success.”
