Newcastle Jets have begun hunting for a new head coach after the surprise resignation of Arthur Papas, confirming his exit after two seasons at the helm of the Isuzu UTE A-League club.
The 43-year-old oversaw 52 A-League Men fixtures at the Jets, guiding the club to ninth and 10th-place finishes across his two-season stint.
In a club statement, executive chairman Shane Mattiske revealed the Jets had “been aware of the potential of a change, and in the background have been considering a number of potential candidates.” Mattiske added that the club had engaged in conversations with Papas for the past month, with the outgoing coach revealing his consideration of a return to working overseas.
The Jets, who play Melbourne Victory on July 17 in an Australian Cup playoff in Darwin, are now seeking their fifth manager since the start of 2020. Mattiske revealed that Papas had flagged a possible desire to return to coaching overseas a month ago, having previously worked in Japan, India and Saudi Arabia.
“Arthur came to us as an Australian coach who had built strong experience overseas throughout his career,” Mattiske said. “Over the past month, Arthur has been transparent with the club that he was considering a return to working abroad. This has now been confirmed and although we are disappointed to see him depart, we respect his wishes.
“Arthur has played a critical role in building a strong football program, a clear playing identity, and a competitive culture at the Newcastle Jets.
“Over the course of the last two seasons, he has given his absolute focus to unlocking the potential of this Club and making our team a real competitive threat in the A-League.
“He’s been a key driver in the recruitment of a high-quality team and has worked across all areas of the first-team environment to set the club up for success in the A-League Men. Since he arrived he’s also worked to guide the development of a stronger Academy for the Club and it is pleasing to see the quality of young talent that is currently emerging.
“He has built strong bonds in this community and played an influential role in the development of our players and football staff.
“On behalf of the club, our players, fans, members, partners, and staff, we wish Arthur well in the next stage of his career.”
