A Sudden Change After a Strong Euro Showing
Spain’s women’s team came within a whisker of a major title in July, falling to England in a nail-biting penalty shootout to finish runner-up at Euro 2025. You’d think a coach who pushed the team that far would get some breathing room, right? Nope. The federation’s board decided otherwise, opting not to renew Montse Tomé’s contract, which was set to expire at the end of August.
Tomé’s departure marks the end of a chapter that began amid controversy and challenge. She took over from Jorge Vilda after Spain’s World Cup triumph in 2023 — a period marred by the fallout from the federation president Luis Rubiales’ infamous kiss incident with player Jenni Hermoso during the World Cup awards. Tomé, who had been Vilda’s assistant during that victorious campaign, was the first woman to lead Spain’s senior women’s squad.
The federation praised Tomé for her “work, professionalism and dedication,” acknowledging her role not just as coach but as a stabilizing force during turbulent times.
Sonia Bermúdez: From Star Striker to New Leader
Sonia Bermúdez isn’t just a name on a roster — she’s a legend of Spanish women’s soccer. With a career spanning top clubs and over 40 caps for the national team, Bermúdez brings a player’s perspective and deep knowledge of the game. Her appointment signals a new approach, blending fresh energy with experience.
Bermúdez’s reputation as a fierce forward who scored crucial goals throughout her career will likely inspire the current crop of players. But coaching is a whole different ball game. She now faces the task of molding a team hungry to move past last month’s near miss and hungry for silverware.
Adding to the coaching staff, Iraia Iturregi, also a former player, will serve as Bermúdez’s second coach. Iturregi’s background includes years as a midfielder for Spain and strong ties to the domestic league. The federation seems to be banking on their combined playing experience to cultivate a close-knit, motivated squad.
A Quick Look at Tomé’s Tenure and Team Achievements
Montse Tomé’s coaching stint was relatively brief but impactful.
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Took over senior women’s team in late 2023 after World Cup victory.
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Led Spain to win the inaugural Women’s Nations League in 2024.
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Guided the team to the Euro 2025 final, narrowly missing out on the title.
Here’s a small table summarizing key milestones during Tomé’s time:
| Year | Achievement |
|---|---|
| 2023 | Promoted to senior team coach |
| 2024 | Won inaugural Women’s Nations League |
| 2025 | Reached Euro Women’s Championship final |
Despite the success, the federation clearly decided it was time for a change. Some insiders speculate this move reflects a desire to refocus the team’s tactics or dynamics ahead of upcoming qualifiers and tournaments.
What’s Next for Spain’s Women’s Team?
With the World Cup cycle and Olympics coming up, the pressure is on Bermúdez to deliver. Fans and pundits alike will watch closely as she settles into her role.
Expectations are sky-high after recent success, but the mood also feels optimistic. Bermúdez’s fresh take could be the spark Spain needs to finally clinch that elusive Euro title.
That said, the transition won’t be seamless. Adjusting to new leadership always has its hiccups, and questions remain about how the players will respond to the change after Tomé’s steady guidance.
Will Bermúdez be able to unite the squad and build on the momentum? Only time will tell. But one thing’s clear — Spain’s women’s soccer scene is alive and kicking with big ambitions.
