Melbourne Victory name Arthur Diles as permanent head coach: Full Details

Arthur Diles has been confirmed as the new head coach of Melbourne Victory after signing a deal to lead the club until the end of the 2025-26 Isuzu UTE A-League campaign.

Having been operating in an interim role since taking charge following the departure of former head coach Patrick Kisnorbo, Diles has now been installed as the permanent boss of the side.

Without a win in his first six games in charge, the 42-year-old secured his first victory as interim head coach in Round 16 of the Isuzu UTE A-League when his side defeated Sydney FC 2-0 in the Big Blue.

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“Stepping into the role in the circumstances I did, is obviously unusual and it was a busy period through Christmas and New Year with trips to Sydney and New Zealand and a heavy schedule, but I think the group navigated the upheaval well,” said Diles.

“As a Club, our expectations and standards have not changed over the period.

“We want to keep following our processes, ensure we deliver consistent and high-quality performances playing the exciting style of football our fans expect from us, and importantly see those processes and performances translate into points and trophies this season and beyond.”

Before taking the reigns on a full time basis, Diles had previously spent the last 18-months at Melbourne Victory serving as a Senior Assistant to both current Socceroos head coach Tony Popovic as well as the aforementioned Kisnorbo.

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      “Since joining the Club almost two years ago, Arthur has demonstrated his commitment and his capacity to instil a game model that we want to see, build a team that taps into the great talent that sits within our Academy and to have the absolute respect of everybody within our program,” said Melbourne Victory’s Director of Football, John Didulica.

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      “Our focus in recent weeks has been building support for Arthur and the players and ensuring we maintain the highest possible standards of performance and commitment. 

      “Whilst we have dropped points through this process, we are confident we have the calibre of squad to reset, and we are still well positioned to achieve silverware in 2025.”

      Forming part of Diles’ coaching staff will be Assistant Coach Nick Stavroulakis and Football Analyst Patrick Hooper, both of whom have joined the club since Diles took charge.

      “During 2024, we have made the Grand Final, Australia Cup Final and won promotion to the NPL, all of which Arthur has contributed to in a meaningful and positive way,” added Melbourne Victory Chairman, John Dovaston,

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          “While we want and expect more, Arthur has earned the opportunity to continue to lead our Men’s program and deliver the success that our members and fans deserve.”

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          The confirmation of Diles’ new deal comes off the back of the club announcing the signing of central defender Lachlan Jackson on an 18-month contract following a spell playing in the K League 1 with Suwon FC.

          Currently sat 6th on the ladder, Victory travel to Western Australia in Round 17 of the Isuzu UTE A-League as they face Perth Glory.

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