Photo via BBC Sport

Kirby 'stressed' by abrupt Vidosic exit from Brighton

Brighton & Hove Albion’s midfield maestro **Marlon Kirby** has expressed frustration over the abrupt departure of head coach **Ivica Vidosic**, just as the Seagulls face a challenging season ahead. The club’s early struggles under new manager **Javier Ruiz**—who took over late—include a season-opening loss to Arsenal and a winless start to the league campaign, though a dominant 5-1 thrashing of Charlton in their third game suggests Ruiz’s tactical approach is beginning to take hold.

Vidosic’s tenure had seen Brighton prioritize ball possession and physicality, culminating in their FA Cup final victory in May, but his exit has left the team adapting quickly to a more direct, high-pressing style under Ruiz, who has already led Real Sociedad to Champions League qualification in Liga F last year. With Manchester City—undefeated in five WSL matches this season—next on the agenda, Kirby acknowledged the difficulty of transitioning mid-season, stating the team must now focus on disrupting opponents faster rather than overcommitting to possession.

The clash with City, who defeated Brighton 4-0 in the FA Cup final, adds further pressure as the Seagulls aim to stabilize their form ahead of a tough fixture list.

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