Former Socceroos striker David Zdrilic has left his role as Sydney FC assistant coach after being offered an opportunity of a head coach role.
Zdrilic made waves in his role as assistant at Sydney, where he initially joined last season to work alongside Steve Corica and remained in the position to team up with current Sky Blues boss Ufuk Talay.
The ex-Genoa assistant helped implement Sydney’s high-octane brand of football and relentless pressing style through his experience with Red Bull at German Bundesliga outfit RB Leipzig, working with the likes of Ralf Rangnick and Julian Nagelsmann.
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In 2023-24, Sydney won the Australia Cup and reached the Isuzu UTE A-League Semi-Finals after finishing fourth.
“I’d like to thank Sydney FC for giving me the opportunity to come back to Australia and help the club bring to life its football philosophy, while also progressing my own career and beliefs,” Zdrilic said.
“Sydney FC has always had a special place in my heart having played and coached here in various guises.
“It has a fantastic future, built on solid foundations and a great culture, and I wish the club the best.”
Zdrilic becomes the latest Sydney coach to move into a head coaching role, following the likes of Rob Stanton (Newcastle Jets), Giancarlo Italiano (Wellington Phoenix), Alen Stajcic (Western Sydney Wanderers), Tony Popovic, Steve Corica (Auckland FC) and current boss Talay.
“I’m delighted Sydney FC has been able to help his career progression,” said Talay.
“He has performed a great job for us and fully deserves his chance.
“We all have to take the next step on our coaching journey, and we will bring in a new, excellent assistant coach who will benefit and learn from our philosophy and culture.”