Matildas Get Huge Boost Ahead of Asian Cup
Joe Montemurro is set to part ways with Lyon after just one up-and-down season and the timing couldn’t be better for the Matildas. The Aussie coach is now in line to take over the long-vacant role of Australia’s women’s national team boss, a position that’s been surprisingly unfilled since Tony Gustavsson was let go 279 days ago following a disappointing Olympics showing.
Montemurro’s Time at Lyon Wraps Up
According to French outlet L’Équipe, Montemurro’s exit from Lyon is already locked in. That means it’s only a matter of time before he’s officially announced as the new Matildas head coach. Lyon, despite being the most decorated women’s football club in history with eight Champions League titles, haven’t exactly hit their usual heights this season. Early in the campaign, they were stunned by Reims in the Round of 32 of the Coupe de France, and then they were thrashed 4-1 at home by Arsenal in the Champions League semi-finals. Matildas Get Huge Boost Ahead of Asian Cup.
Still, they’ve held onto the top spot in France’s Première Ligue and are heading into the semi-finals against fourth-placed Dijon. If they win, they’ll face either Paris FC or PSG in the final. But regardless of how the rest of the season plays out, Montemurro’s chapter in France looks to be coming to an end.
Return to Australia Could Be Just Weeks Away
The final league matchday in France is set for May 16. If all goes according to plan, Montemurro could be on the Matildas’ bench for their two upcoming friendlies against Argentina on May 30 and June 2. Those games will mark the end of Tom Sermanni’s run as interim coach, during which he led the team for 11 matches. Matildas Get Huge Boost Ahead of Asian Cup.
A Familiar Face with Big Potential
Montemurro is already well-liked among players and fans. He’s remembered for leading Arsenal to the 2018/19 WSL title, the last manager not named Chelsea to win it. With the 2026 Asian Cup just 10 months away and hosted at home, Football Australia will be crossing their fingers that this long coaching search pays off.
“Never Say Never”
Even though he’s still under contract with Lyon, Montemurro didn’t exactly shut down the idea of taking over the Matildas when asked last month. “Never rule out anything in football, mate,” he said. “You know how it goes things can change fast.” He also admitted he’s had a couple of “very positive” and professional conversations with Football Australia, adding to the sense that his return home is pretty much a done deal.
