French women's league champions Lyon have appointed former Barcelona coach Jonatan Giraldez as manager to replace new Matildas mentor Joe Montemurro.

Montemurro walked away from the final year of his deal at the weekend, appointed on Monday to coach Australia's national women's team on a three-year deal through to the end of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

Giraldez coached Barcelona from 2021 to 2024, winning two Women's Champions Leagues, three league titles, two Copa de la Reina trophies and three Spanish Super Cups.

The Spaniard, who has signed a three-year contract, joins the French club from NWSL side Washington Spirit. Both teams are part of the multi-club structure operated by the Michele Kang-owned Kynisca Sports International.

"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," Giraldez said in a statement on Monday.

Lyon are widely regarded as the most successful women's soccer club in the world and have won a record eight Champions League titles.

Under Montemurro Lyon were crowned Premiere Ligue champions for the 18th time in the 2024-25 season and reached the semi-finals of the Champions League.