Former Arsenal defender and 76-cap Swiss international Johan Djourou has been appointed as the sports coordinator for the Swiss women’s national football team.

This move sees the 37-year-old taking on a new challenge in the world of football, driven by his passion for the women’s game and inspired by his daughter’s budding football career.

SAINT PETERSBURG, RUSSIA - JULY 03: Johan Djourou of Switzerland looks on during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Round of 16 match between Sweden and Switzerland at Saint Petersburg Stadium on July 3, 2018 in Saint Petersburg, Russia. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)
SAINT PETERSBURG, RUSSIA – JULY 03: Johan Djourou of Switzerland looks on during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Round of 16 match between Sweden and Switzerland at Saint Petersburg Stadium on July 3, 2018 in Saint Petersburg, Russia. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)

Djourou’s role, while still being defined, will involve supporting Marion Daube, the director of women’s football at the Swiss Football Association (SFV). He may also assist coach Pia Sundhage on the training ground and lead the “legacy” project, aimed at creating a lasting impact on girls’ and women’s football in Switzerland through the Euro 2025 tournament.

Djourou’s interest in women’s football dates back to his time at Arsenal, however, his current involvement is largely due to his eldest daughter, Lou, who aspires to be a professional footballer. Witnessing her passion and determination sparked Djourou’s own enthusiasm for the women’s game.

SWANSEA, WALES - JANUARY 15: Thierry Henry (R) of Arsenal looks on with Johan Djourou during the Barclays Premier League match between Swansea City and Arsenal at Liberty Stadium on January 15, 2012 in Swansea, Wales. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)
SWANSEA, WALES – JANUARY 15: Thierry Henry (R) of Arsenal looks on with Johan Djourou during the Barclays Premier League match between Swansea City and Arsenal at Liberty Stadium on January 15, 2012 in Swansea, Wales. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)

In addition to his new role, Djourou remains a TV pundit in Switzerland and France and coaches the U-15 team at FC Lancy in Geneva. His commitment to women’s football was further demonstrated when he initiated a petition to increase government funding for the Euro 2025 tournament.

Djourou’s appointment is part of a wider effort by the SFV to strengthen the women’s national team ahead of the European Championship. The association has also recently brought in renowned coach Pia Sundhage and former German goalkeeper Nadine Angerer, signalling a serious commitment to building a competitive team.