Melbourne City FC and Head Coach Warren Joyce have agreed to part company following the conclusion of the Englishman’s two-year contract with the Club.
Joyce joined Melbourne City in June 2017 from English Championship side Wigan Athletic, and took the team to a third-placed and fifth-placed A-League finish in the 17-18 and 18-19 seasons respectively.
Melbourne City CEO Brad Rowse said:
“Warren leaves Melbourne City FC having helped the club progress against many of our organisational ambitions, and we are grateful for his dedication and passion for the Club’s development over the past two years. In particular, under his stewardship a significant number of young players have made the transition to first team football and many have been recognised with National team selection.”
Joyce said he had enjoyed the challenge of managing Melbourne City and testing himself in a new league but after completing two seasons, was looking forward to returning to the UK and his family.
“It’s been a challenging couple of seasons, but I have great pride in the players and staff for the progress the Club has made,” he said.
“I’ve seen real growth from the playing group and within the football organisation and the continued development of the right kind of culture. I am confident that A-League success is around the corner for the Club. I’d like to wish everyone at the Club and the fans the best of luck for the future,” he added.
Melbourne City Director of Football Michael Petrillo will now lead a full review process in coordination with City Football Group’s Brian Marwood. Following Board consideration, the outcome of that review will form the basis for the selection of a New Head Coach to build upon the work overseen by Joyce over the last two seasons.
Petrillo said: “Our ambition remains unchanged. We want to be constantly competing for silverware and playing in the Asian Champions League, with a definitive brand of football.”
The Club wishes to thank Warren for his hard work and commitment over the past two seasons.
