Jonatan Giráldez Will Coach Olympique Lyonnais Women’s Team
An unexpected change shakes the world of women’s soccer. Jonatan Giráldez has been announced as the new coach of Olympique Lyonnais (OL) Femenino, marking the end of his time as head coach of the Washington Spirit after less than a year.
Adrián González, Spirit’s technical assistant, will take over as head coach starting July 18, before the NWSL season resumes after the summer break.
Both the Washington Spirit and OL, owned by Michele Kang through her company Kynisca, have experienced this significant change.
“Jonatan’s commitment to excellence and performance is unmatched. His leadership, tactical acumen, and dedication to player development will propel our club to the next level, both nationally and internationally.”
Michele Kang
The position at OL opened after the sudden departure of Joe Montemurro, who became the coach of the Australian women’s national team.
OL Lyonnes won their 18th league title in the last 19 seasons in France, but were eliminated from the UEFA Champions League in the semi-finals by Arsenal.
Giráldez, 33, will look to bring his former rival back to glory. He won consecutive UEFA Women’s Champions League titles with FC Barcelona in 2023 and 2024 before joining the Spirit.“I am honored and excited to join OL Lyonnes. The club’s history, ambition, and talented squad represent a fantastic opportunity, and I look forward to building on the club’s successes as it enters a new chapter.”
Jonatan Giráldez
Giráldez’s arrival in Washington was seen as a great achievement for the club and the NWSL. He leaves the Spirit after having coached half a season in 2024 and 2025. He led the Spirit to victory over the Orlando Pride in the NWSL Challenge Cup in March.
Kang thanked Giráldez for “the foundation he built” at the club, and Giráldez said he was “deeply grateful for the opportunity to have been part of the Spirit family.”González compiled a 10-4-1 record as interim coach in the first half of the 2024 season, helping the Spirit finish second in the race for the NWSL Shield and runner-up in the playoffs.
“I am excited and honored to become the coach of the Spirit. 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 on the foundation we have established together.”
Adrián González
Before joining Spirit, González was a coach for RCD Espanyol in Spain, leading the team to promotion to Liga F.
“Adrián has shown that he is ready for this role. He knows the team and has earned the trust of this organization through his hard work and dedication. I am looking forward to seeing what this team can achieve this season and beyond under his leadership.”
Michele Kang
The Washington Spirit is in fourth place (6-3-1, 19 points) in the NWSL with three games remaining before the league’s summer break.
Kang also owns the London City Lionesses, who were promoted to England’s top flight before the next season.
