Eastleigh in the Community Women are delighted to announce the arrival of Rafa Citron as the new First Team Manager.

The Brazilian joins the Spitfires with five years of experience in the Women’s game, having coached Solent University’s BUCS First Team since 2017.

He led the Sparks to a Third Place finish in the BUCA Western 1A Division in his first season in charge, as well as reaching the National Final in the BUCS National Trophy 2019/20.

‘Rafa The Gaffer’ continues his strong links with Solent University, which has seen several players star for the Spitfires Women in recent seasons.

Alongside Rafa, Sam Brown joins him in the First Team coaching department. After a hugely successful season with the Women’s Reserves side, he has earned the step up to the senior side.

Upon joining the club, Rafa Citron said:

“I’m really excited, I have been looking for an opportunity like this.

“For me, after having a meeting with the staff, I saw what they want to do with the club and I want the same as well. We want to progress and that’s the mentality we need from the beginning.

“With the facilities here, and all the support on and off the pitch, this feels like the right place to be.”

With Rafa now confirmed at the helm, he has started to assemble the Eastleigh Women’s 2022/23 squad with re-signings and incomings to be announced in the near future.