Joe Montemurro confirmed as new Matildas coach

The worst kept secret in Australian football has been officially confirmed with Joe Montemurro announced as the new Matildas coach.

The worst kept secret in Australian football has been officially confirmed with Joe Montemurro announced as the new Matildas coach.

“To be appointed head coach of the Matildas is the honour of a lifetime,” said the 55-year-old Melbourne-born mentor, who previous jobs having included title-winning stints as coach of the women’s teams of Arsenal, Juventus and most recently Lyon.

“This team means so much to so many Australians, and I’m humbled by the opportunity to help shape its next chapter.

“I’ve followed their incredible journey closely and am energised by the passion, resilience, and identity they’ve built.

“There’s a generation of talent coming through and major tournaments on the horizon.

“My job is to honour the legacy, harness the momentum, and help this team play football that inspires and unites the country.”

The Australian coach has won titles all over the world, including with Lyon and Arsenal.

Lyon, one of the biggest women’s football clubs in the world, announced on its social media channels on Sunday afternoon that the coach would be departing just one year into his two year contract and from there his Matildas appointment was only ever going to be a matter of time.

The post translated to English read:

“The club would like to thank Joe for his commitment throughout the season and wishes him continued success in his career.”

Montemurro will replace interim Matildas coach Tom Sermanni, whose final game in charge will be Australia’s clash with Argentina on Monday night.

Sermanni was apppointed interim coach in September last year soon after the departure of Tony Gustavsson following the Matildas’ poor Olympic Games campaign.

Football Australia interim chief executive officer Heather Garriock said Montemurro brought “world-class experience, a deep understanding of the Australian football landscape, and a genuine connection to our national identity”.

“Importantly, he has spent the last decade coaching at the very highest levels of the women’s game in Europe and brings with him an unparalleled understanding of what is required to compete and succeed at the top of modern football,” Garriock said of Montemurro, who before heading to Europe coached the women’s teams at Melbourne City and Melbourne City.

“Joe has shown an ability to build high-performing teams that play with tactical clarity and attacking intent, and we believe his vision and values are the perfect fit to lead the next era of the Matildas with professionalism, vision, and distinction.”

Originally published as Joe Montemurro confirmed as new Matildas coach