After a record-breaking W-League season, Melbourne City FC Women’s Head Coach Joe Montemurro is relishing the opportunity to further test his title-winning team in Abu Dhabi.
Four days into the Club’s post-season training camp in the U.A.E. capital, Montemurro believes Wednesday’s clash against English heavyweight – and sister club – Manchester City Women’s FC will provide his squad with a unique opportunity to learn and develop against world-class opposition.
“Because we have a younger squad and younger players travelling with us, it’s great they get the opportunity to see pros – real professional players who are playing at World Cup level and high levels,” Montemurro said.
“They have been exposed to it through Matildas and also through some great European players. They’ll be playing against some of the best players in the world, which we think is important for their learnings to become great footballers.
“It’s been a bit of a mix of getting the training priorities in but also making sure the girls are relaxed, we’ll prepare the best we can for the game and we’re looking forward to a great experience.”
Having set new standards for his team during the W-League season, Montemurro said the tour has been beneficial in exposing his players to a new set of professional values and opportunities.
“I think it’s an extension of the professional standards we set throughout the season and the high standards but also the possibility for the players to aim high at the international level,” he said. “They get exposed to international football and it is part of the holistic program we are trying to put together.
With both MCWFC’s meeting one another for the first time in the warm surroundings of Abu Dhabi, Montemurro believes the chance to connect and share insights with their English counterparts will help showcase women’s football on the global stage.
“I think an experience and to solidify a bond with the Manchester City women’s team and just to show it’s a global experience for the girls, I think the workings and the findings which will come out of this tour will be amazing,” he said.
“It’s been absolutely amazing and an amazing experience for the girls, we thank everyone for organising it and especially to FBMA.”
You can watch the Fatima Bint Mubarak Ladies Sports Academy Challenge from 12:50am AEST on Thursday morning right here on melbournecityfc.com.au. Click here for more information.
