Brighton & Hove Albion have confirmed that Colombia international Manuela Vanegas has signed a new long-term contract with the club.
The 25-year-old defender has established herself in Brighton’s back line since arriving from Real Sociedad in the summer of 2025 and has now committed her future to the Seagulls. The club have not disclosed the exact length of Vanegas’ new deal.
Contract snapshot
Player: Manuela Vanegas
Club: Brighton & Hove Albion
Position: Defender
Age: 25
Nationality: Colombia
Joined Brighton: Summer 2025
Previous club: Real Sociedad
New contract: Long-term deal
Exact expiry date: Not disclosed
Brighton appearances: 28
Brighton goals: 2
Vanegas extends Brighton stay
Vanegas has made 28 appearances in all competitions for Brighton since moving to England, scoring twice.
She was part of the side that reached the Women’s FA Cup final at Wembley last season and played an important role during the cup run. One of her two Brighton goals came in the 3-2 semi-final victory over Liverpool that secured the club’s place in the final.
Head coach Arturo Ruiz welcomed the defender’s decision to extend her stay. “This is great news for Manuela and for Brighton,” Ruiz said.
“Since I came to the club I have been impressed with Manuela’s work-rate, commitment to what we are trying to achieve and her willingness to become an even better player. I’m looking forward to working with her in the future.”
From Real Sociedad to the WSL
Vanegas joined Brighton after playing for Real Sociedad in Spain.
Her career has also included spells with Formas Intimas, Envigado FC, Atlético Huila, Espanyol and Independiente Medellin before her move to European football became established.
The Colombian has since become a regular part of Brighton’s defensive options and has continued to feature during the opening weeks of the 2026/27 WSL campaign.
Her new contract gives Brighton longer-term continuity in defence as the club continues its first season under Ruiz.
Colombia international
Vanegas made her senior international debut for Colombia in 2018 and represented her country at the 2023 Women’s World Cup.
She was part of a Colombia side that produced its best-ever Women’s World Cup performance, reaching the quarter-finals before being eliminated by England.
With her future at club level now secured, Vanegas will continue at Brighton beyond her current season as the Seagulls look to build on last year’s run to Wembley.
Source: Brighton & Hove Albion
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