One of the key figures behind the US women’s national soccer team’s success, Tony Gustavsson is set to be named the new Matildas head coach.
The FFA is expected to announce the 47-year-old Swede’s appointment on Tuesday evening on a long-term contract that will include coaching the Matildas to the 2023 Women’s World Cup on home soil.
Gustavsson is best known for his role as assistant to former US coach Jill Ellis from 2014 to 2019 – a partnership that delivered 2015 and 2019 Women’s World Cup wins.
Former Italy striker and ex-Canada coach Carolina Morace had also been linked to the role, along with Arsenal boss Joe Montemurro and Chelsea counterpart Emma Hayes.
Gustavsson previously served as an assistant to then-US coach Pia Sundhage in 2012, winning an Olympic gold medal.
He then coached Tyresö FF between 2012 and 2014, including leading the Swedish club to the 2014 Women’s Champions League final.
When Ellis was appointed US head coach ahead of Gustavsson in 2014, she enlisted the Swede as her deputy.
Gustavsson was popular among the US playing group and is also well-respected for his tactical acumen.
He stepped down from his US role at the same time as Ellis in July 2019 and is currently working at Swedish club Hammarby IF.
Gustavsson would likely take the reins for the first time in November, when the Matildas meet for a camp in Europe.
Australia have been without a head coach since Ante Milicic stepped down in July.
The Matildas are poised to participate in four major tournaments in as many years – the Tokyo Olympics, 2022 Asian Cup, 2023 Women’s World Cup and 2024 Paris Olympics.
© AAP
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