Arsenal have confirmed that Joe Montemurro, the head coach of the Gunners’ women’s team, will be leaving at the end of the current season.
In a statement, the Gunners have revealed that the 51-year-old has decided to step down in order to recharge and spend more time with his family.
The Australian led Arsenal to the club’s first Women’s Super League title in seven years in 2019, and has reached four cup finals, including a Champions League quarter-final.
“My three-and-a-half years at Arsenal have been a fantastic adventure, the highlight of my coaching career,” Montemurro said.
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“I have had the opportunity to work with and learn from some of the best in the industry on and off the pitch.
“This has been the hardest professional decision of my life, as I absolutely love this job and this club, the club I have supported all my life. I’m hugely grateful to the club for their unrelenting support during my time here and in understanding and respecting my decision.
“I’ve had a fantastic time here at Arsenal and I am proud of what we have achieved. I must thank all the fans, players, staff and the club. This club has always been a leader in women’s football and I will be cheering us on to the next level as I watch as a passionate and enduring fan.
“My focus now is helping the team to complete the season strongly and finishing as high as possible in the WSL, leaving the club in good shape for the future.”
Arsenal chief executive, Vinai Venkatesham, said: “We are all disappointed that Joe has decided to leave at the end of the season, but we fully understand his reasons.
“Joe has made a huge impact during his time with us and we look forward to building on his legacy and taking the club to more success in the future.
“The women’s game is entering an exciting new era and thanks to Joe’s outstanding work, Arsenal is well placed to be as much a force in the future as it has been in the past.”