Long time Barcelona assistant coach Rafel Navarro has been appointed as the new head coach of the Switzerland women’s national football team, following the departure of Pia Sundhage.
- He signs a contract extending to the year 2029 and arrives from the staff of FC Barcelona Femení, where he worked as assistant coach and helped secure multiple titles.
- Navarro emphasizes a project-oriented approach: he wants to implement an offensive, ball-possession oriented style, with aggressive pressing and short-passing play, inspired by his Barcelona experience.
- He acknowledges the difference between the Swiss women’s team and Barcelona’s, but believes the Swiss side has strong young talent - such as Iman Beney or Barcelona's Sydney Schertenleib, and potential that he intends to develop further.
- Navarro states that he will build a coherent philosophy across levels: linking senior squad, youth players, and talent development — reflecting a long-term vision rather than just short-term fixes.
- Regarding his living arrangements, although taking the role with the Swiss national team, Navarro noted that he does not intend to relocate to Switzerland immediately, opting currently for a flexible setup.
