Tim Cahill has ruled out a return to the Hyundai A-League following his retirement from international football.
Speaking at a press conference for the first time since announcing the end of his Caltex Socceroos career, the former Melbourne City FC striker said he will consider continuing to play at club level, but not in Australia.
“I want to be open and honest that my Hyundai A-League experience was fantastic; to come home, to win a trophy with Melbourne City FC in the FFA Cup, to score some awesome goals,” said Cahill.
“My debut is something I’ll never forget. I felt like I had a successful time here.
“To live in America and try and play in the Hyundai A-League would be impossible.
“So I’d like to respectfully thank everyone that’s been talking about me coming home.
“To draw a line in the sand there – that will just stop any whispers.”
While the 38-year-old said he may continue playing, Cahill also confirmed he is interested in pursuing coaching opportunities.
“Looking for the future, I’m interested in coaching,” said Cahill.
“I’m going to spend some time in Australia and meet with some partners and try and lay some foundations to do great things for football in Australia; make sure that I can still be an ambassador the Hyundai A-League and support football in Australia, which is something that I’m excited to do.
“I’ll fly to the UK and start my UEFA B licence just in preparation and then I’ll open the door for offers to play football.
“I’ve not really entertained anyone when it comes to [offers to play] football because I’ve been selfish enough finally to have some family time.
“International retirement is done, but for domestic, there could be an opportunity. It’s still something I’ve got time to decide.”
Cahill scored 11 goals in 28 appearances for Melbourne City FC over two seasons before joining Millwall in the lead up to the 2018 FIFA World Cup™, where he made one appearance for the Caltex Socceroos against Peru.