Jonatan Giráldez to Lyon: Ex-Washington Coach Takes Charge
Jonatan Giráldez, former coach of the Washington spirit, is now the new head coach of OL Lyonnes, the eight-time European women’s champions. This headline move marks a significant shift in the landscape of women’s soccer, ending Giráldez’s tenure with the Washington Spirit. Adrián González steps up to take the reins of the Spirit on july 18th, following the NWSL’s summer break. Michele Kang,who owns both clubs through Kynisca,orchestrated the coaching changes following Joe Montemurro’s departure,showcasing a bold reshuffle in the women’s football world. The article highlights the dedication of Giráldez and the readiness of González. For more on this evolving story, stay tuned to News Directory 3. Discover what’s next for these teams.
Jonatan Giráldez Jumps to OL Lyonnes, Adrián González Takes Over Washington Spirit
Updated June 2, 2025
Jonatan Giráldez is the new head coach of OL Lyonnes, the eight-time European women’s champions. This move ends his brief tenure with the Washington Spirit.The Washington Spirit adn OL Lyonnes are both owned by Michele Kang through kynisca, her multi-club company.
Adrián González,previously an assistant coach,will become the Washington Spirit head coach on July 18,following the NWSL’s summer break. González had served as interim coach last spring while the team awaited Giráldez’s arrival from Barcelona.
kang praised Giráldez’s commitment to excellence and believes his leadership will elevate OL Lyonnes. She also expressed gratitude for his decision to remain within the Kynisca association. The OL Lyonnes job became available after Joe Montemurro’s departure to coach the Australia women’s national team.
OL Lyonnes secured their 18th league title in 19 seasons but were ousted from the UEFA Champions League semifinals by Arsenal, who ultimately defeated Barcelona in the final. Giráldez aims to restore OL Lyonnes to it’s former glory. he previously led Barcelona to back-to-back UEFA Women’s Champions League titles in 2023 and 2024.
Giráldez expressed his excitement about joining OL Lyonnes, citing the club’s history and talented squad as a fantastic opportunity. He also thanked the Washington Spirit for the opportunity to be part of their family.
González, who has a strong record as interim coach, is eager to lead the Spirit.He thanked Giráldez for his leadership and friendship. Before joining the Spirit, González coached RCD Espanyol in Spain, guiding them to promotion to Spain’s top flight.
Kang stated that González has earned the organization’s trust and is ready for the head coach role. The Washington Spirit are currently fourth in the NWSL standings. They are managing several injuries, including Trinity Rodman’s back injury.
The Spirit have been without a full-time general manager as Mark Krikorian’s departure. González will be the sixth coach to lead the team for more than one game as 2021, including interim appointments.
Kang also owns the London City lionesses, who were promoted to England’s top flight. She aims for each of her clubs to be the best in their respective countries and has pledged not to transfer players between them to benefit one another.The coaching change highlights the dynamic landscape of women’s soccer and the NWSL coaching carousel.
“Jonatan’s commitment to excellence and performance is unmatched,” Kang said. “His leadership, tactical acumen, and dedication to player advancement will propel our club to the next level, both domestically and internationally.”
“I am excited and honored to become the head coach of the Spirit,” González said. “Our focus remains on continuing to deliver performances that make our fans proud. I want to thank Jona for his leadership and friendship over the years, and I look forward to continuing to build upon the foundation we have established together.”
what’s next
gonzález will take charge as the Washington Spirit head coach on July 18. He will focus on maintaining the team’s performance and building upon the existing foundation. Giráldez will aim to lead OL Lyonnes to further success in both domestic and international competitions.