Sonia Bermúdez has kicked off her tenure as the new head coach of the women’s national football team with a strategic approach. With the Nations League semifinal against Sweden approaching at the end of October, she emphasized the importance of not revealing too much to the opposition regarding her squad choices. Yet, the spotlight continues to shine on Jenni Hermoso, the all-time top scorer for Spain. “She is a legend, but you’ll have to wait for the squad list,” Bermúdez remarked, hinting at her intentions while stating, “We are starting from scratch. We aim to bring in the best to win this Nations.” Over the month and a half since her appointment, she has spoken with some of the players.
Bermúdez steered clear of controversial subjects during her introduction. As a result, she briefly mentioned names like Misa Rodríguez and Mapi León, who have not returned to the national team after rejecting to play under former coach Jorge Vilda. León remains the only player that the RFEF has not managed to bring back so far. It remains to be seen whether Bermúdez can include her in a project that she barely outlined while once again citing the need for discretion to avoid giving away information to the enemy.
“We want the second star, the second Nations League. I feel comfortable with the pressure. I know the role I’ve taken on, and I’m prepared. We will train the best team in the world, with the best players, and we aim to continue winning. We seek excellence,” asserted Bermúdez, who was accompanied by her new staff. Notable figures include Blanca Romero as the physical trainer, who previously worked with Vilda and Tomé, establishing excellent relationships with the players. Also in the staff are goalkeeping coach Carlos Sánchez, second Iraia Iturregi, who previously managed Athletic Club, and analysts Julen Itxaso and Adrián Millán. The team will begin preparations for the two-legged semifinal against Sweden on October 20. “I thrive under pressure, and I can’t think of a better setting for my debut than a semifinal,” she said.
Experience and Preparation
Initially, the new head coach addressed questions about her experience in coaching. “I have played for 20 years at the elite level, competing in a European Championship and a World Cup in 2015. I have participated in the best leagues, which has prepared me for this role. After retiring, I had options to coach in the top leagues in Spain and even abroad. However, I chose to develop my skills at the grassroots level, identifying talent. This provides me with the flexibility to understand what is ahead. Having played in two European Championships and a U-20 World Cup gives me confidence,” she explained.
Bermúdez mentioned that she was informed about her selection to replace Montse Tomé, with whom she hasn’t spoken in a while, on August 11, coinciding with a vote at the RFEF board meeting. “She did an outstanding job, and I wish her all the best,” she said of her predecessor. She is not intimidated by the intense focus on the national team.
The president of the RFEF, Rafael Louzán, also praised the former coach, recognizing her contributions, but noted that the recent runner-up finish in Europe feels insufficient given the current expectations. Spain, ranked number one globally and reigning world champion, is now heavily reliant on its trophy collection.
Upcoming Challenges
“We recently completed a qualification phase for the men’s World Cup where Spain dazzled the world. We are on the same track with the women’s team. We strive for excellence. I see Sonia eager and excited about the wonderful challenge of taking over the world champion team,” the president stated, committing to providing all necessary resources for the team to excel.
What the Spanish team under Sonia Bermúdez will look like will unfold starting October 20, just one week after she announces her squad list. On the 24th of October, the team will face Sweden in Málaga, followed by the second leg in Sweden on the 28th. The ultimate goal is to reach the final and defend their title.
However, another challenge awaits in January: the qualification for the Brazil World Cup in 2027. The details regarding their path will be unveiled on December 4.