RIYADH — The Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF) revealed Lluís Cortés as the new head coach for the women's national team. Succeeding Rosa Lappi-Seppälä, Cortés has signed a four-year contract, extending until 2027. The official unveiling ceremony took place in Riyadh on Monday. Yasser Al Misehal, president of the SAFF, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "Lluís was the standout candidate to lead our women's national team in this exciting new era, and we are thrilled to have finalized this important appointment." He said: "We believe Lluís's coaching capabilities, knowledge of the game, and extensive experience will play a huge role as we look to maintain our sustained and steady progress in the years ahead. "He is a deep thinker and is looking to develop the long-term strategy, so I have no doubt he will make an important impact upon Saudi women's football on and off the pitch. We're really looking forward to working with him." Cortés, renowned for his achievements with Barcelona Femeni in the 2020/21 season, secured a continental treble by winning the Primera Division, Copa de la Reina, and UEFA Women's Champions League. Following a successful stint at Barcelona Femeni, he managed the Ukraine women's national team from 2021-2023. Expressing his gratitude, Cortés said: "Being confirmed as Saudi Arabia's new women's national team head coach is a real privilege. "I want to thank the Saudi Arabian Football Federation for this wonderful opportunity to work in a country that loves the game so much and is really growing football for all." "The prospect of working with such an ambitious and energetic group of young players is really exciting, and I will look to incorporate my philosophy of attractive and attacking football on our journey together." Cortés acknowledged the remarkable progress of the team in a short span, emphasizing the flourishing grassroots, the introduction of a new Under 20 national women's team, and the rapid development of the Women's Professional League. He expressed confidence in a brighter future, stating: "So, I am confident the future is even brighter as we have all the ingredients to climb up the FIFA rankings." "The aim is to keep working, keep improving, and take further steps toward our aim of competing at the highest level internationally. This is why I'm here, and I can't wait to meet the players and get started."
