Wellington Phoenix head coach Giancarlo ‘Chiefy’ Italiano has extended his tenure with the Isuzu UTE A-League club by signing a new contract.
Italiano has committed to another season at the helm, with an additional option for the following year, dispelling recent speculation about his future with the club.
The 42-year-old Australian, who recently concluded his previous contract, is set to lead the Phoenix into his third season as head coach. He holds the highest winning percentage of any manager in Wellington’s history, despite the team missing out on the 2024-25 Finals Series.
Last season, Italiano guided the club to its most successful campaign yet, narrowly missing out on their first Premiership by finishing in second place and falling just short of a Grand Final appearance.
“We’ve made significant progress over the past two years, and I’m excited about bringing the club back to its rightful place,” commented Italiano.
“I’m eternally grateful to Wellington. This club provided me with my inaugural coaching position in the A-League, and I aspire to leave it in a strong position.”
“Winning the A-League has always been my goal. Why aim for anything less?”
He added, “After facing the challenges this season, I’m feeling more confident that I can guide the club to where it needs to be and we can truly chase the title.”
“Despite a difficult season, there have been bright spots, and I firmly believe we can push the club forward.”
PREVIEW: Key Insights for Round 28 of the Isuzu UTE A-League
This season has presented numerous challenges for both Italiano and the Phoenix, as they currently sit 11th in the league with just two matches left to play.
The ‘Nix have found it tough to replicate the successes of the previous season following the departures of notable players such as Alex Paulsen, Ben Old, Finn Surmann, and Bozhidar Kraev. Nonetheless, it has been a year of valuable lessons for Italiano and his team.
Italiano reflected, “I’ve gained insight into managing player expectations following such a successful season and how to support a young squad under undue pressure.”
“Overall, I’ve navigated various challenges this year, from injuries to player availability and expectations, and the balance required to handle it all.”
“I feel like I’ve grown from this experience, and it has positioned me more favourably for the future.”
Football Director Shaun Gill noted, “It seems many in the sporting community have forgotten quickly.”
“I understand the frustration and disappointment about how the men’s season has unfolded, but Chief has built a solid reputation.”
“Not only did he lead the men’s team within reach of the club’s first trophy last year, but he was also a vital part of the coaching staff during the previous four seasons, when the team regularly made the finals, despite spending nearly two years in Australia.”
“We are confident that he will turn around the team’s fortunes next season and have the Phoenix back in the top six contending for silverware.”
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
Fanpage: SportArena.com.au.
LiveScore – Live Sports Results & Odds.
