The Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) announced that Montse Tomé will no longer serve as the head coach of Spain’s women’s national football team, with her contract set to expire on August 31, 2025.
The decision comes less than a month after Spain’s defeat to England in a penalty shootout during the Women’s Euro 2025 final in Basel, Switzerland. Tomé, the first woman to coach the senior women’s team, has been replaced by former player Sonia Bermúdez, with Iraia Iturregi named as the assistant coach.
Spain’s women’s national team has parted ways with head coach Montse Tome.
— The Athletic | Football (@TheAthleticFC) August 11, 2025
The Spanish Football Federation has announced Tome’s contract, which expires at the end of August, will not be extended.
Spain Under-23 head coach Sonia Bermudez has been confirmed as Tome’s replacement.… pic.twitter.com/O6cR387yOV
A Tenure Marked by Success and Controversy
Montse Tomé, aged 43, took over as head coach in September 2023, succeeding Jorge Vilda, who was sacked amid the fallout from former RFEF president Luis Rubiales’ unsolicited kiss on player Jenni Hermoso during the 2023 Women’s World Cup celebrations. Tomé, who had served as Vilda’s assistant during Spain’s World Cup triumph, led the team to significant achievements, including the inaugural UEFA Women’s Nations League title in February 2024 and securing the No. 1 spot in FIFA’s women’s rankings. Despite these accomplishments, her tenure was not without challenges.
Spain’s performance at the Paris 2024 Olympics was disappointing, with the team failing to secure a medal after losing to Germany in the bronze medal match. Additionally, Tomé faced criticism for her tactical decisions during the Euro 2025 final, particularly for substituting two-time Ballon d’Or winner Alexia Putellas in the 71st minute of the match against England. The 1-1 draw, followed by a 4-1 penalty shootout loss, intensified scrutiny on her leadership.
Reasons Behind the Decision
The RFEF’s decision to part ways with Tomé was unanimous, following a board meeting on August 11, 2025. While Spain’s on-field performance under Tomé was strong—reaching the Euro 2025 final and maintaining their status as world champions—the decision appears to be driven by more than just sporting results. Sources indicate that the RFEF, under the leadership of women’s football director Reyes Bellver, sought to overhaul the team’s culture following the controversies surrounding Rubiales and Vilda. Tomé’s association with Vilda’s regime, where she served as assistant coach, reportedly contributed to her dismissal, as the federation aimed to distance itself from the previous era.
Additionally, reports suggest that Tomé struggled to maintain authority in the dressing room, with some players questioning her leadership. The RFEF’s statement thanked Tomé for her “work, professionalism, and dedication” but confirmed that her contract would not be renewed.
Sonia Bermúdez Takes the Helm
Sonia Bermúdez, a former Spanish international with 63 caps and 35 goals, has been appointed as Tomé’s successor. Bermúdez, who previously coached Spain’s Under-23 team, brings a wealth of playing experience, having won nine league titles with clubs such as Rayo Vallecano, Barcelona, Atlético Madrid, and Levante. Her appointment, alongside assistant coach Iraia Iturregi, signals the RFEF’s intent to build a fresh, dynamic leadership structure for the 2027 Women’s World Cup. However, some in Spain have expressed concerns about Bermúdez’s relative lack of senior coaching experience and her ties to the youth setup during the Rubiales-Vilda era.
Looking Ahead
Spain’s women’s team, now under Bermúdez’s leadership, will aim to maintain their position as a global powerhouse. The team is set to return to action in October 2025 for the UEFA Women’s Nations League semifinals against Sweden. With a talented squad featuring players like Aitana Bonmatí and Alexia Putellas, the RFEF will expect Bermúdez to lead Spain back to the top at the 2027 Women’s World Cup.
The departure of Montse Tomé marks the end of a significant chapter in Spanish women’s football. While her tenure was marked by notable successes, the RFEF’s decision reflects a broader vision for change as the team prepares for future challenges.
