Emily Lima is the new coach of Levante and becomes the first Brazilian coach in the Liga F
Levante bets on experienced manager to turn around poor 2024/25 campaign
Spanish club Levante UD Femenino announced on Monday (August 4) the appointment of Emily Lima as their new head coach for the 2025/26 Liga F season. With the hiring, Lima becomes the first Brazilian woman to coach in Spain’s top-tier women’s league, marking a significant milestone for both her career and Brazilian football.
Levante Looks to Bounce Back from Difficult Season
Levante endured a disappointing 2024/25 Liga F campaign, finishing 12th with just 31 points only 8 points clear of the relegation zone, where Real Betis sat with 23. After narrowly avoiding the drop, the club is aiming for a fresh start under Lima’s leadership.
The board has overhauled the squad during the summer transfer window, bringing in key signings to strengthen the team. Lima is expected to play a crucial role in rebuilding confidence and establishing a new identity for the side.
Emily Lima’s Coaching Journey
Though only 44, Emily Lima brings a wealth of experience and international credibility to the job. Her coaching résumé includes both club and national teams, highlighted by:
- Former Brazil Women’s National Team head coach (2016–2017)
- Paulistão Feminino champion with Santos in 2018
- Head coach of Ecuador Women’s National Team (2019–2022)
- Managed Peru Women’s National Team (2023–2025), including the Copa América Femenina
Lima began her career coaching clubs like Portuguesa, Juventus da Mooca, São Caetano, and São José before making the jump to international management.
Debut on the Horizon
Emily Lima is currently overseeing Levante’s preseason training, and may make her sideline debut in a friendly against Valencia on Wednesday (August 6). If not, her official debut will take place on August 31, when Levante opens their Liga F campaign against Granada.
