The Newcastle Jets have appointed former Australian defender Mark Milligan as the new head coach, stepping in to replace the recently dismissed Rob Stanton in a move that had been largely anticipated.
Milligan, who has represented the Socceroos 80 times, including at four World Cups, faces the challenge of revitalising the Jets for the 2025-26 A-League season, following the club’s failure to make the playoffs for the seventh consecutive year.
“It’s an exciting time for the Newcastle Jets under new ownership,” said Milligan, who previously spent a season with the Jets in 2008-09, in a statement on Tuesday.
“From the outset, it was evident that their vision aligns with my aspirations for the Jets, focusing on player development while ultimately striving for team success.
“Having played for the club and spent time in Newcastle, I fully understand the community’s desire for a dynamic style of football that emphasises high-energy attacking play.“
At 39, Milligan was appointed as an assistant coach for Malaysia under his fellow Australian, Peter Cklamovski, just two months ago. He has previously held similar coaching positions at A-League clubs Adelaide United and Macarthur FC, where he concluded his professional playing career in 2021.
This past season, the Jets finished ninth out of 13 teams in the A-League. They claimed their only championship in 2008 but haven’t reached the playoffs since making a run to the 2018 Grand Final under former coach Ernie Merrick.
The club has faced ownership issues and financial difficulties for over a decade but is optimistic about future prospects after being acquired by the Maverick Sports Group last year.
“Mark’s experience as a player here means he understands the significance of engaging with the community and the necessity of establishing a strong identity for the Newcastle Jets,” remarked chairman Maurice Bisetto.
“We’re confident that Mark can foster a robust culture throughout the club, building a winning team that the region can truly take pride in.“
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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