Montemurro Appointed Matildas Head Coach After 10-Month Search

SYDNEY (AP) — Football Australia will officially name Joe Montemurro as the new Matildas head coach at a Monday morning press conference, ending a protracted 10-month search for Tony Gustavsson’s successor.

The 55-year-old Melbourne native was released from his Olympique Lyonnais contract Sunday after guiding the French giants to this season’s Division 1 Féminine title. His appointment comes just eight months before Australia hosts the 2025 AFC Women’s Asian Cup.

Coaching Pedigree

Montemurro brings championship-winning experience:

• 🏆 2023-24 French league title (Lyon)

• 🏆 3 WSL titles (Arsenal 2018-19, Juventus 2021-22)

• 🏆 2 A-League Women championships (Melbourne City)

• 🎯 Developed stars like Caitlin Foord and Sam Kerr

“Joe’s tactical acumen and understanding of Australian football make him the ideal leader for this crucial period,” said interim CEO Heather Garriock, who led the recruitment process.

Immediate Challenges

The new coach inherits:

• ⏳ Just 7 months to prepare for home Asian Cup (March 2025)

• 🔄 Transition phase for veteran players

• 📅 Upcoming friendlies vs Argentina (Monday) and Slovenia

• 🏆 2027 World Cup/2028 Olympics cycle

Montemurro previously missed out on the Matildas job to Gustavsson in 2019. His arrival ends caretaker Tom Sermanni’s nine-month interim tenure, which players criticized as delaying crucial preparations.

Player Reactions

Arsenal star Caitlin Foord, who played under Montemurro at club level, told media in April: “We’ve felt like we’re wasting time without permanent leadership ahead of a major tournament.”

Montemurro’s contract is expected to run through the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, covering Australia’s most challenging generational transition in women’s football history.