Is Former Lyon, Arsenal Manager Montemurro Now Head Coach of Australia's Matildas?
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Synopsis
In a significant development for women's football, Joe Montemurro has been appointed as the head coach of Australia's Matildas, following a lengthy search that lasted 10 months. With a stellar track record at top clubs like Lyon and Arsenal, Montemurro brings invaluable experience and expertise to the national team.
Key Takeaways
- Joe Montemurro appointed as head coach of the Matildas.
- Montemurro has won multiple league titles with top clubs.
- His first matches will be against Slovenia on June 26 and 28.
- The Matildas will compete in the 2026 Asian Cup in Australia.
- Montemurro's experience is expected to elevate the team's performance.
Sydney, June 2 (NationPress) Football Australia (FA) has officially appointed Joe Montemurro as the head coach of the women's national team, the Matildas.
The announcement on Monday confirmed Montemurro as the 15th permanent head coach of the Matildas, concluding a comprehensive 10-month search.
The 55-year-old Australian comes to the national team from French powerhouse Lyon, where he achieved remarkable success by leading the club to a domestic league title and reaching the UEFA Women's Champions League semifinals, according to reports from Xinhua.
Before his time at Lyon, Montemurro secured league titles with Juventus, Arsenal, and Melbourne City.
Heather Garriock, the interim chief executive of FA, stated, "Joe brings world-class experience, a profound understanding of the Australian football scene, and a real connection to our national identity."
She emphasized that Montemurro possesses an "unmatched comprehension" of achieving success at the highest levels of modern football and has a proven track record of building high-performing teams.
At a press conference in Sydney, Montemurro expressed he was "humbled" by the chance to influence the next chapter of the women's national team.
The Melbourne-born coach began his journey in women's football at Melbourne Victory FC and Melbourne City FC. His initial success came during the 2015/16 season, where he led City to an undefeated championship victory in the A-League Women.
In 2017, he made history as the first Australian to manage Arsenal’s Women’s Team, where he lifted several trophies, including the Women’s Super League in the 2018/19 season.
In 2021, Montemurro took the helm of Juventus Women, continuing his streak of success by capturing the Serie A title in the 2021/22 season, alongside various domestic cup victories and increased competitiveness on a continental scale. In 2024, he was appointed head coach of European titan Olympique Lyon, leading them to a domestic league title in France.
His appointment comes just ahead of the Matildas' friendly match against Argentina in Canberra on Monday evening, which marks the final game for interim head coach Tom Sermanni.
This appointment follows the departure of former head coach Tony Gustavsson, who led Australia to the semifinals of the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup.
Montemurro's inaugural matches as Matildas head coach will be two friendlies against Slovenia on June 26 and 28. His first major tournament will be the 2026 Asian Football Confederation Women's Asian Cup, set to take place in Australia.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the significance of appointing an experienced coach like Joe Montemurro. His extensive background in women's football, particularly in high-stakes environments, positions him well to uplift the Matildas. This strategic move signals Football Australia's commitment to fostering a competitive team that can shine on the international stage.
NationPress
21/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Joe Montemurro?
Joe Montemurro is an accomplished football coach from Australia, known for his successful tenures at clubs such as Lyon, Arsenal, and Juventus. He has a proven track record of winning league titles and developing high-performing teams.
What is Montemurro's coaching experience?
Montemurro has extensive coaching experience in women's football, having led teams to multiple championships, including the Women's Super League and Serie A titles. He has also successfully managed teams in the UEFA Women's Champions League.
What does Montemurro bring to the Matildas?
Montemurro brings a wealth of experience, strategic insight, and a deep understanding of the Australian football landscape, which will be instrumental in enhancing the Matildas' performance on the international stage.
What are Montemurro's first matches as Matildas head coach?
Montemurro's first matches as head coach will be a series of friendlies against Slovenia on June 26 and 28.
When is the next major tournament for the Matildas?
The next major tournament for the Matildas will be the 2026 Asian Football Confederation Women's Asian Cup, which will be hosted in Australia.
