LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
After leading the Brisbane Broncos to the 2025 NRL premiership and establishing himself as one of the top coaches in rugby league over the past two decades, Michael Maguire is now being considered for another head coaching position.
In just 30 months, Maguire has quieted his critics by securing the 2023 Pacific Championships with an unexpected victory for New Zealand, followed by winning the 2024 State of Origin series with the NSW Blues, and recently, the NRL premiership.
As one of the leading rugby league coaches today, he is poised to potentially add another significant achievement to his coaching portfolio.
According to News Corp, Maguire has been associated with the England head coaching position ahead of the 2026 Rugby League World Cup (RLWC), which would involve him taking over from current coach Shaun Wane.
The report indicates that the Broncos coach is keen on the opportunity.
This speculation arises as Wane faces considerable scrutiny after a disappointing performance in the 2025 Ashes Series, where England lost all three matches to Australia. This campaign featured surprising player selections, including the omission of reigning Man of Steel winner Jake Connor and the decision not to play AJ Brimson in the series opener.
"I don't believe - I know I am. The only people I want (to back me) are the players and staff and I know I have that," Wane stated when questioned about his suitability as the coach for the upcoming RLWC.