A week after guiding the Philippines to a historic first World Cup win, former Matildas and Central Coast Mariners mentor Alen Stajcic has returned to Australian football after being appointed as coach of Perth Glory.
Stajcic, 49, has just completed his stint in charge of the Philippines national women’s team who, despite beating co-hosts New Zealand, failed to progress out of the group stage of the FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Stajcic said he was “relishing the prospect of starting a new chapter in his career” after his ugly exit as Matildas coach in 2019 created his opportunity with the Philippines, which he ended after their World Cup exit
“I vividly recall the late ’90s and early 2000s when Perth Glory revolutionised the (National Soccer League) with its connection to the city, its level of support and a team that was leading the way on the pitch,” he said.
“I believe an incredible opportunity now exists to re-establish Glory as one of the giants of Australian football and that vision is one shared by everyone at the club.
“I take great confidence from the groundwork which has been put in over the last year to set the club back on the path to success and am excited to help continue that process.
“Perth has a such a rich history in football and a rich history in developing players.
“It is our vision to once again give the Perth football community a team and a club which they can be truly proud of.”
The Glory is in the hands of receivers after long-time owner Tony Sage relinquished ownership of the club last month.
However, the club’s future has been guaranteed by the Australian Premier Leagues, which runs the A-League.
Glory chief executive Anthony Radich rated the appointment of Stajcic, who was controversially sacked as Matildas coach in 2019, was a “huge coup” for the club.
“He is someone who possesses all the attributes required to take this club forward both on and off the field and is the high-calibre appointment that Perth Glory needs and deserves,” Radich said.
“Alen is highly respected, not only as a coach but very importantly as a person of the highest character and integrity.
“He is someone who is renowned for being able to build strong cultures and positive, high-performing environments.
“He also possesses an in-depth understanding of the Australian football landscape, has experience in operating in austere and challenging environments and in developing youth and has consistently achieved success.
“Most importantly, Alen is a winner.”