Brighton & Hove Albion are heading into the 2025-26 Women's Super League (WSL) season with a sense of stability and ambition, aiming to build on their club-record 5th-place finish from the previous year. Under the guidance of Dario Vidosic, who is entering his second season as head coach, the Seagulls have established a clear identity and are looking to consolidate their position in the top half of the table, potentially even challenging the traditional WSL powerhouses.
Last season was a learning curve for Vidosic, with the team experiencing both impressive highs, including a notable victory over Arsenal and a draw against Chelsea, and periods of inconsistency. Brighton turned their home ground in Crawley into a fortress, losing only two games there, and ultimately secured a club-record 28 points. Vidosic's tactical approach, emphasizing possession-based, attacking football, saw Brighton register the fourth-highest average possession in the league (53.1%) and the second-highest shot conversion rate (19.1%). However, heavy defeats against top teams highlighted the need for improved defensive resilience.
The summer transfer window has seen considerable player turnover, with several experienced players departing, including club captain Vicky Losada, Pauline Bremer, Maria Thorisdóttir, and Guro Bergsvand. The departure of Nikita Parris to London City Lionesses was a significant loss, as she was a key figure in Brighton's attack. However, Brighton have responded with astute signings, bringing in Japan defender Moeka Minami, Maelys Mpomé from Chelsea, and Colombia left-back Manuela Vanegas. The acquisition of Nigeria international goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie is particularly noteworthy; she arrives with top credentials after winning the Africa Cup of Nations and being named the tournament's best goalkeeper. Brighton have also secured Michelle Agyemang on another loan from Arsenal; she had a successful Euro 2025 campaign with England. Rosa Kafaji will also join on loan from Arsenal.
Brighton's pre-season form has been strong, including a 5-0 victory over Crystal Palace and wins against Spanish sides CF Alhama and Levante. Their opening WSL fixture is at home against Aston Villa, followed by matches against West Ham, Manchester City, Everton and Tottenham. Securing early points against teams that finished below them last season will be crucial.
Off the pitch, Brighton continues to invest in its infrastructure, with one of the WSL's best training facilities and ongoing development of its player pathway. Plans to build a dedicated stadium for the women's team in Brighton are progressing, with a realistic goal of completion by the 2027-28 season. Bringing the team back to Brighton is seen as key to building a more invested fanbase.
Maisie Symonds acknowledges the challenge of replicating last season's success, given the league's increasing competitiveness. However, with Vidosic having a full season under his belt and a blend of experienced and promising new players, Brighton are well-positioned to continue their upward trajectory in the WSL. The season kicks off on the weekend of 6-7 September 2025.
