The transition from club football has not been easy for Joe Montemurro.

In June, the Australian left his latest high-profile European job managing Lyon (to another Première Ligue title in his first season) and moved back to Melbourne for the first time since 2017 to coach his first national team.

The Matildas job was the dream, which is why he departed France mid-contract, but he still admits the lack of daily contact with players and routine of weekly games has been a major adjustment.

“I’ve been invited for so many coffees during the day it’s ridiculous – everyone thinks I’ve got nothing to do, and they’ve got to have a coffee with me,” Montemurro said. “The biggest danger is I’ve got too much time to think. It’s really dangerous because a lot of thoughts go through your head.

“I’m g

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