Brighton Women Part Ways with Baggaley, Bance, and Kafaji

Goalkeeper Sophie Baggaley and midfielder Libby Bance will leave Brighton Women when their contracts expire later this month.

In addition, forward Rosa Kafaji is returning to her parent club Arsenal at the end of her season-long loan.

Head coach Dario Vidosic said: “I would like to thank all three girls for their service to the club. During my time Sophie and Rosa have been great to work with and extremely professional both on and off the field.

“They helped the club reach its first Wembley final and should be proud of the part they played in that historic achievement.

“When I had the opportunity to work with Libby I found her attitude and professionalism first-class too. I wish them all every success for their future careers.”

Women’s and girls’ managing director Zoe Johnson added: “It is always tough to part ways with players who have given so much to the badge. Each of these individuals has made a defining contribution during their time here.

“Sophie was central to our historic fifth-place finish in 2024/25, and alongside Rosa, played a massive role in taking us to our first-ever FA Cup final.

“Libby’s journey through the Albion academy is a testament to her incredible work ethic and professionalism. We are deeply grateful for their service and wish them every success moving forward.”

Baggaley joined Albion in 2023, made 42 appearances for the club and was voted players’ player at the 2023/24 end of season awards. On Monday, she was called up to the England senior squad for their World Cup qualifiers later this month against Spain and Ukraine.

Sweden international Kafaji joined the club last summer on a season-long loan from Arsenal and played 24 times for Albion, scoring twice.

Bance made her Albion debut in 2020 and went on to make 27 appearances, spending loan spells with Rangers, Bristol City and Birmingham City, whom she helped win promotion back to the WSL this season.