A bombshell report into the Matildas has revealed the true feelings of some players towards axed coach Tony Gustavsson.
Tony Gustavsson’s tenure at the helm of the Matildas came to an end on Thursday (AEST) after a disastrous campaign in Paris.
Less than a day after being let go, stunning revelations from inside the Matildas camp have come to light detailing the “four years of hell” players endured under Gustavsson.
The Australian has revealed the animosity some players felt towards the coach and his questionable tactics throughout his tenure.
Australia’s favourite team failed to live up to their pre-Olympic hopes of capturing a first ever medal as they were eliminated at the group stage with a loss to USA.
The elimination is the earliest for the Matildas since they made their debut way back in 2000 at the Sydney Olympics.
It has now been revealed by The Australian that Gustavsson “lost the dressing room some time ago” with players describing his time in charge as “four years of hell”.
Gustavsson constantly left players puzzled by his tactics which ultimately came to the fore during three group games in Paris.
One player labelled it as “disorganised chaos”.
While the axe came for Gustavsson, the playing group will be put under the microscope with Football Australia to complete a thorough review into the Olympics nightmare.
“As part of our commitment to continuous improvement, we will conduct a thorough review of the campaign,” FA CEO James Johnson said.
“This review will identify areas for improvement and ensure we are well-prepared for future challenges. The process for the recruitment of the Matildas head coach will also commence immediately.”
The latest report comes on the heels of revelations about the disorganisation and disunity within the Matildas camp earlier in the campaign.
Sources revealed the “disorganised” direction coming from Gustavsson, who controversially conceded his players “weren’t ready” to play after the German embarrassment which saw the Matildas hammered 3-0.
One source described the campaign to journalist Jess Halloran as a “shitshow”, while others called it a “mess”.
Halloran said the absence of Sam Kerr is being keenly felt by the playing group – and also revealed the inspirational captain’s “relationship with Football Australia is at an all-time low”.
Football Australia wasted no time in confirming that Gustavsson, whose contract was set to expire in September, would not be offered an extension following the 2-1 loss to the USA.
The search for his successor is already underway, with Football Australia pledging to commence the recruitment process immediately.
While the Matildas’ next international window in October is reserved for friendlies with no tournament qualifications at stake, the focus is clearly set on rebuilding for their next challenge at the AFC Asian Cup in 2026.
“It has been a great honour and privilege to have been able to be the head coach of the Matildas over the past four years. This journey with the team has had many incredible moments and memories that I will forever treasure,” Gustavsson said.
“Thank you to the incredible players for letting me play a small part in their stories, my staff for being beside me every step of the way, Football Australia for backing our vision for this team, the Australian football family for embracing me and the Australian public for the tremendous support.
“Australian football will be forever in my heart, and I will be watching on and cheering on your success in the future.”