Montse Tomé Replaced as Spain Women’s Boss After Euro 2025 Final Defeat to the Lionesses

RFEF Opts Against Renewing Contract as Sonia Bermúdez Steps In to Lead the World Champions

In the unforgiving world of international football, the line between glory and disappointment can be razor thin. Just two weeks after guiding Spain to the Euro 2025 final — only to fall short against England’s Lionesses — Montse Tomé has been replaced as head coach of the Spain women’s national team.

The Spanish football federation (RFEF) confirmed on Monday that Montse Tomé’s contract, due to expire at the end of August, will not be renewed. The decision marks a swift and decisive change at the helm, with former international and youth team coach Sonia Bermúdez taking over the reins.

A Sudden but Not Entirely Unexpected Decision

For some, the announcement was a shock — after all, Spain were just 90 minutes away from securing back-to-back European titles. For others, it was the culmination of mounting frustrations that have been bubbling under the surface since Montse Tomé took over from Jorge Vilda in 2023.

While Montse Tomé’s reign began with optimism, her two years in charge have been defined by near-misses in major tournaments. The 2024 Olympic Games saw La Roja enter as heavy favourites, only to suffer a shock semi-final defeat to Brazil before losing the bronze medal match to Germany. The Euro 2025 final loss to England, meanwhile, exposed a defence that had leaked goals all tournament.

The Final That Sealed Her Fate

The Euro 2025 final in Lyon was meant to be the crowning moment of Montse Tomé’s tenure. Spain, reigning world champions and blessed with world-class talent, had every reason to believe they could outplay England. Yet, the match will be remembered less for the football and more for the eyebrow-raising decision to substitute Alexia Putellas — twice a Ballon d’Or winner — midway through the second half.

Fans and pundits alike questioned the tactical call, especially given Spain’s struggle to break down England’s disciplined back line. For many, it was symbolic of a broader issue: Montse Tomé’s reluctance, or inability, to adapt when Plan A wasn’t working.

The Achievements — and the Shortcomings

Montse Tome 2025

It’s important to acknowledge that Montse Tomé’s time wasn’t without silverware. In 2024, she delivered a UEFA Nations League title, guiding Spain to victory over France in the final. The win was historic and showcased the team’s ability to dominate possession and create chances.

However, in the eyes of the RFEF — and the fans — one trophy in two years wasn’t enough for a squad bursting with talent. The expectation was at least one more major title, whether at the Olympics or the Euros.

The defensive frailties were perhaps the most glaring issue. Across both the Olympics and Euro 2025, Spain conceded goals in key moments, often against the run of play. For a team that prides itself on control, these lapses proved costly.

Enter Sonia Bermúdez — A New Era Begins

In stepping into the role, Sonia Bermúdez brings a wealth of playing and coaching experience. A prolific forward in her day, Bermúdez earned 63 caps for Spain and enjoyed club stints with Barcelona, Rayo Vallecano, and Atlético Madrid.

Since retiring, she has transitioned seamlessly into coaching, leading Spain’s Under-19s to two European titles. Her work with the youth setup has been praised for tactical clarity, attacking intent, and an ability to nurture young talent — all qualities that will be tested on the senior stage.

The Immediate Challenge — Nations League Finals

Bermúdez won’t have long to settle in. Her first assignment will come in October, when Spain face Sweden in the UEFA Nations League semi-finals. The winner will go on to meet either Germany or France in the final, a competition Spain won under Montse Tomé just months ago.

It’s a high-stakes baptism of fire for the new boss, but also a chance to make an immediate statement. With Spain still holding the title of world champions, the expectation will be nothing short of victory.

A Delicate Transition

Aitana Bonmati Spain 2024

Taking over from a coach who delivered both triumph and disappointment is never straightforward. Montse Tomé’s departure leaves a team that is still cohesive and full of star power, but in need of tactical refreshment. Bermúdez must strike a balance between maintaining the core philosophy — possession, patience, precision — and introducing new solutions for when opponents disrupt that rhythm.

How she handles established stars like Putellas, Aitana Bonmatí, and Jennifer Hermoso will be crucial. Managing egos, maintaining harmony, and earning the trust of a dressing room that has been through significant change in the past two years will be one of her toughest tests.

Lessons From the Montse Tomé Era

If there’s a lesson from Montse Tomé’s two years, it’s that success at the top level is as much about adaptability as it is about talent. Spain under Tomé often looked unbeatable when things went according to plan. But in the rare moments they were challenged — trailing late in a match, or unable to impose their passing game — they sometimes faltered.

Bermúdez will need to ensure her Spain side can win in multiple ways: not just through their trademark passing triangles and fluid midfield rotations, but also through direct play, set-piece efficiency, and defensive resilience.

RFEF’s Statement and the Bigger Picture

In announcing the change, the RFEF’s statement was diplomatic, thanking Montse Tomé for her service and highlighting her role in maintaining Spain’s status among the elite. Behind the scenes, however, there is a clear recognition that the team must evolve to stay ahead.

The women’s game is developing rapidly. Nations like England, France, and Sweden are investing heavily in their programs, and the margins for error at the top are shrinking.

A Farewell Without Bitterness

Tomé departs without the acrimony that surrounded her predecessor, Jorge Vilda. While criticism of her tactics and decisions has been vocal, there is respect for the stability she maintained during a period of change.

For her, the next step could be a move into club football or another international role — opportunities will no doubt arise for a coach who has already lifted an international trophy.

What’s Next for Spain?

The timeline is clear:

• October 2025 — Nations League semi-final vs Sweden.

• November 2025 — Potential Nations League final vs Germany or France.

• Summer 2026 — Qualifiers begin for the next World Cup.

With the squad’s depth, there’s every reason to believe Spain will remain a major force. But the pressure is on Bermúdez to show immediate progress. Anything less than reaching the Nations League final will be viewed as a setback.

Final Thoughts

The story of Montse Tomé’s tenure is one of almosts — almost winning the Olympics, almost defending the Euros, almost delivering the sustained dominance many expected. Football, however, rarely rewards almosts.

Sonia Bermúdez now has the opportunity to take a supremely talented group and turn potential into reality. The challenge is immense, but so too is the opportunity.

In football, timing is everything. For Montse Tomé, the timing wasn’t quite right. For Bermúdez, the tim