Brisbane Roar appoints 27‑year‑old Johnathan Clemente as youngest A‑League women’s coach

Brisbane Roar announced on 5 August 2026 that Johnathan Clemente, 27, has signed a two‑year contract to become head coach of its A‑League Women’s team. At 27, Clemente becomes the youngest head coach in A‑League history. He succeeds Alex Smith, who left to coach the women’s side of Brooklyn FC in the United States.

Clemente joins Roar after four seasons as an assistant coach at Melbourne Victory under Jeff Hopkins and after leading various development programmes, including the club’s Afghan women’s team. He previously held head‑coach roles in the NPLW, guiding Essendon Royals to promotion at 19 and achieving a high league finish with Heidelberg United at 20. Roar sporting director James Gow praised Clemente’s clear coaching philosophy and experience despite his age, noting the thorough recruitment process that led to his appointment.