Joe Montemurro's appointment as Australia's head coach for the 2026 Women's Asian Cup begins on home soil. The former Arsenal, Juventus and Lyon manager inherits a squad featuring 13 players currently competing in England's WSL. Montemurro acknowledges the challenge clubs face losing key players during critical windows, stating it's 'an honour' for players to represent Australia at this home tournament.

He believes clubs 'now plan for such absences' despite timing never being ideal. The Matildas aim to reclaim the Asian Cup, last won in 2010 when a 16-year-old Sam Kerr scored her first two international goals. Hosting the tournament builds on the momentum from the 2023 World Cup co-hosting, though Montemurro stresses the need to raise professional standards, highlighting A$30,000 average salaries and calling for minimum standards in contracts and benefits.