Jonatan Giráldez said on Friday that his impending move from head coach of the NWSL‘s Washington Spirit to the same role for eight-time European champions OL Lyonnes was “the best for both sides.”
Giráldez addressed reporters for the first time since the shocking news, which the Spirit and Lyonnes confirmed on Monday. Both clubs are owned by Michele Kang through her Kynisca multi-club business.
Giráldez arrived at the Spirit halfway through 2024 and helped the team finish runners-up in the regular season and the playoffs. He came from FC Barcelona, a club he had led to back-to-back European titles.
He said on Friday that he did not view his time with the Spirit as incomplete.
“No, being honest, I think we should consider [my time] here, as the players said, as a foundation to build something together,” Giráldez said. “I am part of the group. I’m not the most important guy.
“I am not the most important person. Club, players, staff, supporters — especially, club is over everyone. I came here with a plan, probably to stay longer. But…
