Former Newcastle Jets assistant Riccardo Marchioli has been appointed assistant coach of the Philippines women’s national team.
The talented young Australian joins forces with countryman and 2022-23 Ninja A-League Coach of the Year Mark Torcaso following Andrew Durante’s departure to Isuzu UTE A-League outfit Melbourne Victory.
In a statement, the Philippines Football Federation (PFF) said the “appointment is set to significantly enhance the Filipinas’ strategic capabilities, bringing a wealth of elite-level experience and a fresh perspective cultivated across diverse high-performance environments.”
Marchioli’s arrival adds to the strong Aussie contingent that already includes assistants Sinisa Cohadzic and Garrath McPherson – who previously led Brisbane Roar in the Ninja A-League, and physical coach George Mcheileh.
It also continues Philippines rich history with Australian coaches after current Western Sydney Wanderers boss Alen Stajcic guided the Filipinas to an historic FIFA Women’s World Cup berth in 2023.
“We would like to welcome a new and valuable addition to the Filipinas’ coaching staff, Riccardo Marchioli,” said PFF president John Gutierrez as the Filipinas prepare for this month’s ASEAN MSIG Serenity Cup against Timor-Lestre, Australia Under-23s and Myanmar.
“Riccardo’s unique blend of experience – from contributing to an Olympic gold medal to his hands-on success in building and transforming football programs – is exactly what we need as we continue our ambitious journey.
“His understanding of high-stakes environments and his commitment to cultural excellence will be a tremendous asset to the Filipinas.”
Marchili was recently head coach of Hume City in NPLM VIC.
The 34-year-old was previously an assistant to Arthur Papas during his time at Newcastle Jets in the Isuzu UTE A-League, having also worked as an analyst at Melbourne Victory.
Marchioli – who completed his FFA ‘A License’ by just 25 years of age, being told at the time he was the youngest to acquire the license – won a premiership and championship double with the Newcastle Jets youth team and worked as Papas’ assistant coach alongside current Melbourne Victory boss Arthur Diles.
An overhaul of the Jets youth team, including dropping the average age to just 17.5 years, culminated in the club’s first Premiership with a game in hand three years ago. He was also a scout as the United States’ women’s national team won gold at the 2024 Olympic Games.
“Riccardo’s analytical expertise and his ability to integrate technology into player development and tactical planning are incredibly valuable,” said head coach and ex-Western United boss Torcaso.
“He brings a strategic mind that will push us to think differently and prepare even more thoroughly.
“We’re not just gaining a coach; we’re gaining a true collaborator who shares our passion for continuous improvement and achieving the extraordinary for Philippine football.”
