Wellington Phoenix have confirmed club legend Chris Greenacre will lead the team on an interim basis.
The news follows the departure of former Head Coach Giancarlo Italiano, who resigned following the Nix’ 5-0 derby defeat to Auckland FC.
The club legend, who played 84 matches for the Phoenix from 2009 to 2012 before spending the next nine years as a first team assistant coach, will prepare the men for Sunday’s round 19 Isuzu UTE A-League match against Sydney FC at the renamed Hnry Stadium in Wellington.
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Greenacre is stepping up from his role at the Phoenix academy, where he has been the head of pro development and men’s reserves head coach for the past four seasons.
“We’re very lucky to have someone of Greeny’s calibre at the club,” said Phoenix Director of Football Shaun Gill.
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“He’s a great coach and person, on top of being a Phoenix icon, and he’s done a tremendous job at the academy over the past four years preparing our young men’s players for professional football.
“These are difficult circumstances but Greeny didn’t hesitate when I asked if he could take charge. He loves the Phoenix and wants to restore some pride in the club.
“All of his focus is now on Sunday’s match against Sydney FC.”
This is the fourth time Chris Greenacre has been appointed the Phoenix men’s interim head coach and discussion are ongoing with regards to Greenacre’s longer term future in the role.
“It’s not the first time I’ve done this, but it doesn’t get any easier,” Greenacre said.
“Coming in this morning was quite difficult for me. We have to move on quickly as a club, but you never forget what’s gone before you.
“I want to pay tribute to Chiefy. He led the Phoenix to their best ever season, narrowly missing out on the premiers’ plate and a place in the grand final, and that shouldn’t be forgotten.
He continued: “He’s a top person as well and dedicated the best part of seven years of his life to the club.
“I wish him all the best in the next chapter in his career and hopefully our paths cross soon.”
The Phoenix are also looking for a new assistant coach as Italiano’s assistant coach Kelly Guimarães has also departed.
The Brazilian was appointed to the lead assistant role for the 2025-26 season, but has stood down in the wake of the derby defeat.
