The Football Association has officially found a new Matildas coach after 10-month search – and now we finally know his name: Joe Montemurro. But in case you aren't a football super fan who's already familiar with Montemurro's work, we thought we'd help you get acquainted.
Early career and playing days
The accomplished Australian football coach was born on 13 September 1969 in Melbourne, and began his football journey as a midfielder. He played in Italy and later in Australia's Victorian state leagues, before recognising his aptitude for leadership and strategy, and transitioning into coaching. He began his coaching career with youth teams in Victoria, before taking on senior roles with clubs like Sunshine George Cross and Coburg United.
Coaching trajectory and accolades
Montemurro's breakthrough came in 2015 when he was appointed head coach of Melbourne City Women and, under his guidance, the team achieved an unprecedented undefeated season, securing both the Premiership and Championship titles in their inaugural W-League campaign .
This success propelled him to the international stage, leading to his appointment as head coach of Arsenal Women in 2017. During his tenure, Arsenal clinched the Women's Super League title in 2019 and the League Cup in 2018, ending a seven-year league title drought.
And in 2021, Montemurro took the helm at Juventus Women, where he continued his winning streak by securing a domestic treble in his first season, including the Serie A title, Coppa Italia, and Supercoppa Italiana. His European journey continued with a move to Olympique Lyonnais Féminin in 2024, making history as the club's first non-French head coach.
Move to The Matildas
This week, it was announced that Montemurro had returned to Australia to become the head coach of the Matildas, the national women's team. Tasked with leading the team through the 2026 Asian Cup next March, and up to the 2028 Olympics, Montemurro already has his sights set on some big tournaments.
His coaching style is characterised by a commitment to possession-based football, tactical intelligence, and creative freedom. In other words: quick passing, positional flexibility, and relentless pressing without the ball. But for the Matildas – especially as they navigate a generational transition – their work will likely be cut out for them in aiming to integrate emerging talent while maintaining a competitive edge.
