After nearly a year of speculation, Football Australia has confirmed Joe Montemurro as the new head coach for the Matildas. The Melbourne-born coach, fresh off a championship-winning season with Lyon, is set to lead Australia’s women’s soccer team into next year’s Asian Cup on home soil and beyond.
Montemurro’s return marks a significant moment for Australian football, bringing back one of the country’s most experienced and decorated women’s coaches.
A Proven Track Record in Women’s Football
Joe Montemurro isn’t a newcomer to the Australian football scene. His coaching roots trace back to Melbourne Victory and Melbourne City, where he spent formative years shaping teams in the W-League. Those early roles laid the groundwork for what would become a distinguished international career.
At 55, Montemurro has clocked considerable time in Europe’s top women’s leagues. Arsenal fans still remember his knack for tactical adjustments that led the club to multiple trophies. His recent stint at Lyon, one of the world’s most dominant women’s teams, ended on a high note with a league title in his very first season. It was no small feat, especially considering he left Lyon with a year still on his contract to answer Football Australia’s call.
His appointment fills the vacancy left by Swedish coach Tony Gustavasson, who stepped down last year. The gap left behind had Australian fans and players alike wondering who would step up. Montemurro was widely regarded as the top Australian candidate, and Football Australia finally secured him, putting an end to the months-long limbo.
A Homecoming with Big Expectations
At a press conference in Sydney, Montemurro described the role as “the honour of a lifetime.” You could tell this wasn’t just another job for him.
“This team means so much to so many Australians,” he said, voice tinged with pride. “I’m humbled by the opportunity to help shape its next chapter.”
He’s been watching the Matildas for years, following their progress, their highs, and lows. The passion, grit, and identity they’ve built fired him up. You get the sense he’s ready to pour everything he’s got into pushing them forward.
The deal runs through to the 2028 Olympics, signaling a long-term vision. Montemurro knows the spotlight will be intense, especially with the Asian Cup set to be hosted on home turf next year. The pressure is real, but so is the excitement.
Shaping the Future of Australian Women’s Soccer
What can the Matildas expect? Montemurro’s teams are known for tactical discipline mixed with a fluid attacking style. He’s a coach who adapts on the fly, reads the game well, and demands resilience from his players.
His experience in Europe’s elite leagues means he’s been exposed to world-class talent and strategies, which could be a huge boost for the Matildas. He understands what it takes to win at the highest levels.
And it’s not just about results. Montemurro has a reputation for developing players. His time in Melbourne’s leagues proved he can nurture young talent and build team cohesion, qualities essential for a squad looking to assert itself globally.
The table says a lot. He’s got silverware, experience, and the respect of players and peers alike.
What’s Next?
With Montemurro at the helm, Australia’s women’s football scene enters a fresh chapter. The Asian Cup next year is the first big test—a chance to shine in front of home fans and show the progress made.
Beyond that, the 2028 Olympics loom large, promising more opportunities for glory and growth. Football Australia’s gamble on Montemurro looks calculated but promising.
The Matildas have built a solid foundation. Now it’s up to their new coach to turn that foundation into a championship-winning machine. And from where it stands, fans have every reason to be optimistic.
