LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Penrith Panthers coach Ivan Cleary has made a decisive call on the NSW Blues coaching opportunity following Michael Maguire's departure to join the Brisbane Broncos.
Cleary, who recently clinched his fourth consecutive NRL premiership and led his team to a fifth straight NRL Grand Final, emerged as a potential candidate for the role.
Known as one of the top coaches in the league, Cleary shares a special connection with many players in the NSW Blues squad, including Dylan Edwards, Matt Burton, Spencer Leniu, Stephen Crichton, Brian To'o, Jarome Luai, Liam Martin, Isaah Yeo, and his own son Nathan Cleary.
Although Cleary himself did not confirm his decision regarding the coaching position, Panthers CEO Brian Fletcher confidently stated that Cleary would not be taking on the role as the club aims to secure a fifth consecutive premiership in 2025.
"Ivan is on a winning streak and making history here.
He's in the running for more record-breaking achievements, so why throw it all away? That's the last thing on his mind," Fletcher expressed to The Daily Telegraph.