Barcelona Femeni Head Coach Jonatan Giraldez to Depart at End of Season
Barcelona Femeni head coach Jonatan Giraldez has made the decision to leave the club at the conclusion of the current season.
Giraldez, 32, has declined Barcelona’s offer to renew his contract and has opted to pursue other opportunities.
While Giraldez has informed the board and coaching staff of his decision, the players were unaware until now.
New Offer from NWSL
Giraldez has received a more lucrative offer from the NWSL, prompting his departure from Barcelona. The financial proposal presented by Barcelona did not meet his expectations.
The Spaniard is eager for a change of league and scenery after achieving success with Barcelona. Under his leadership, the team secured their second Champions League title last season, in addition to winning Liga F and the League Cup in both of his full seasons as head coach. He also guided them to victory in the Copa de la Reina during his debut campaign.
Giraldez’s departure follows that of sporting director Markel Zubizarreta, who left the club a few months ago. Barcelona still has several key players, including Alexia Putellas, Sandra Panos, Asisat Oshoala, Mapi Leon, Lucy Bronze, Marta Torrejon, Gemma Font, and Mariona Caldentey, whose contract renewals are yet to be finalized.
Pursuit of Unprecedented Titles
Giraldez’s objective for the remainder of the season is to secure all four titles, a feat never accomplished before. In 2021, Barcelona fell short in their pursuit of the Spanish Super Cup after claiming their first Champions League victory. Additionally, they were disqualified from the Copa de la Reina last year due to an improper player selection in a match against Osasuna.
Next Steps for Barcelona
The club is already in the process of identifying potential replacements for Giraldez. While external candidates such as Natalia Arroyo are being considered, Barcelona has typically favored internal candidates in recent years.
When Fran Sanchez was dismissed, his assistant coach Lluis Cortes took over. Similarly, Giraldez assumed the role after Cortes’ departure.
As a result, Rafael Navarro, Giraldez’s assistant coach and a member of Cortes’ technical staff, is emerging as a strong contender for the position.
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