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Jonatan Giraldez to leave Washington Spirit and take over as OL Lyonnes head coach

<p>Jonatan Giraldez has left the Washington Spirit to take over as the new head coach of OL Lyonnes, the two clubs confirmed on Monday. The move comes less than a year after the former Barcelona coach took over the Spirit, leading them all the way to the final of the NWSL Playoffs, where they fell to the Orlando Pride. Giraldez, who won the Champions League twice with Barcelona, will now take over another of Europe's superpowers in OL Lyonnes, who have won that competition a record eight times since 2010.</p><p>As for the Spirit, assistant coach Adrian Gonzalez has now been promoted to the club's top role for the second half of the season. Gonalzez, who previously coached RCF Espanyol in Spain, previously served as interim coach in 2024 prior to Girladez's arrival, amassing a 10-4-1 record.</p>

WHAT HAPPENED?

<p>“I am honored and excited to join OL Lyonnes,” said Giraldez. “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.”</p><p>He added, “It has been a privilege to lead this incredible group of players, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to have been part of the Spirit family. I am especially proud to see Adrian step into this role. He’s not only a highly skilled coach but also someone who truly embodies the Spirit’s vision and values. I have full confidence he will thrive and continue driving the team forward.”</p>

WHAT GIRALDEZ SAID

<p>With the loss of Giraldez, the NWSL loses one of the sport's finest young coaches, with Giraldez building his resume despite being just 33. His arrival in Washington was seen as a major swing from the NWSL club, but he'll depart after less than one full year in charge, having won one trophy: the NWSL Challenge Cup in March.</p><p>Both the Spirit and OL Lyonnes are owned by Michele Kang, who continues to be one of the leading investors in women's soccer globally.</p><p>"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 domestically and internationally," Kang said. “We are grateful for his decision to remain part of the Kynisca family. He will play a crucial role in elevating OL Lyonnes to new heights for the players and fans.”</p><p>She added, “Adrian has proven that he is ready for this role. He knows the team and has earned this organization’s trust through his hard work and dedication. I am looking forward to watching what this team can achieve this season and beyond under his leadership.”</p>

THE BIGGER PICTURE

<p>Through the first 10 games of the NWSL season, the Spirit sit in fourth, having amassed 19 points, five fewer than the league-leading KC Current. Up next are matches against the North Carolina Courage, Portland Thorns, and San Diego Wave before a mid-season break through the month of July.</p><p>Giraldez will coach those final three matches before handing over the reins to Gonzalez for the second half of the season.</p>

WHAT NEXT FOR THE SPIRIT?

Jonatan Giraldez leaves Washington Spirit to take over as OL Lyonnes head coach | Goal.com

The Spanish boss will trade one Michele Kang-owned club for another as he joins the French giants