‘Slap across the face’: Matildas caught up in A-League All-Stars controversy

Former Arsenal women’s mentor Joe Montemurro has been appointed coach of the A-League All-Stars women’s team facing the Gunners in Melbourne next month.

Montemurro, 54, guided the fortunes of Arsenal’s female side between 2017 and 2021, leading them to an English Women’s Super League title and a League Cup crown.He then moved to Italy to take charge of Juventus’ women’s team. During Montemurro’s tenure, which ended last month, the club won a Serie A title, two Italian Cups and two Italian Supercups.

“I wish to thank the A-League team for including me as part of this historic event,” said Victoria-born Montemurro, who also coached the Melbourne Victory and Melbourne City women’s teams before moving to Europe.

Former Matildas striker Lisa De Vanna criticised the move.

She wrote on X: “Dear A league women’s coaches, How does that slap across the face feels?

“What insult to all the coaches who have put in the effect for all these years and remain loyal to the women’s game in Australia!!”

Football commentator Daniel McBreen said: “Am I the only one who thinks this honour should go to one of the current Liberty A-League coaches?? Is it not in the name… “A-League” All Stars??”

Montemurro’s coaching staff will include Central Coast Mariners mentor Emily Husband and Western United boss Kat Smith.

The Arsenal side for the May 24 clash at Marvel Stadium is expected to include Matildas trio Steph Catley, Caitlin Foord and Kyra Cooney-Cross.

Melbourne Victory’s Alex Chidiac and Melbourne City’s Hannah Wilkinson were this week named as the first two players in Montemurro’s squad.