Newcastle Jets head coach Gary van Egmond has left the Liberty A-League outfit to take up a role with the Chinese Football Association (CFA), effectively immediately.
Van Egmond was appointed by the Jets on a permanent basis in March last year, having stepped in on an interim basis following the departure of Ash Wilson midway through the 2022-23 season.
He exits with Newcastle sixth in the standings through 12 rounds.
Jets assistant coach Ryan Campbell will take the reins as interim head coach as the undertake the process of appointing a successor.
Van Egmond’s responsibilities relating to the Jets Football Academy will be managed by Campbell for the girl’s Academy and Damien Zane for the boy’s Academy until a permanent replacement for Gary is appointed.
“With our Women’s team drawing record support and building great momentum at the half-way mark of the competition, Gary has made a big contribution to the team and we are disappointed that he is leaving the club at this point,” Jets CEO Shane Mattiske said.
“Gary has received an attractive offer from the Chinese Football Association however it is clear that the timing of his departure is not ideal for our team and our fans.
“Gary had raised the possibility taking up this opportunity late last year with the last few weeks being focused on whether he would take the role and discussions around an appropriate release from his contract.”
