Australian coach Mal Meninga expresses interest in returning to club football with the Perth Bears

Mal Meninga has stepped forward as one of the prominent names being considered for the role of the inaugural head coach of the Perth Bears.

Scheduled to join the NRL as its 18th franchise in 2027, the Bears are currently finalising key club positions, sparking considerable excitement in the rugby league community regarding who might be selected as head coach.

The prospect of laying the groundwork for a new team has generated significant interest, with former coach Brad Arthur leading the race for the role. Names like Jason Taylor and Sam Burgess have also been mentioned as potential candidates.

Adding weight to the conversation is the current national team coach’s formidable reputation.

Meninga has held the position of head coach for the Kangaroos since 2016 and is gearing up to guide the team through an upcoming Ashes series and a World Cup.

The 64-year-old previously established a winning legacy with the Maroons, leading Queensland to eight consecutive State of Origin titles during his tenure as their coach.

Despite his success, Meninga has acknowledged that he might not end his coaching career solely at the representative level.

“I’m considering the chance to return to club coaching and complete my journey in rugby league,” Meninga shared on SENQ Breakfast.

“I would like to be involved in club football and take on a leading role. I want to be the figure who lays the groundwork for a new team.”

“It’s a significant challenge, and we all recognise that.”

“If they decide that I’m the right fit to undertake this under the appropriate conditions, I would be ready to jump right in.”

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“I’m pleased with my role in the Australian set-up,” he further elaborated.

“With the Ashes and the World Cup scheduled in England over the next couple of years, it’s an exciting time. Coaching the Perth Bears would be an incredible opportunity, especially with the chance to build a potential powerhouse in the sport.”

“There’s so much to develop regarding junior pathways and talent programmes, but there’s a real chance to elevate the profile of rugby league in that region.”

“With the impending TV broadcast deals, it could truly become something significant.”