New A-League club Auckland FC have confirmed former All Whites coach Danny Hay is joining them, after news broke that Hay was parting company with Australian club Perth SC.
In a statement on Monday afternoon, Auckland FC announced:
“Hay will be responsible for assisting head coach Steve Corica in the selection and development of the playing squad, as well as their tactical and technical preparation ahead of the 2024/25 season kicking off in October.
“Corica has a long-standing connection and shared football philosophy with Hay, having played together at Walsall in 2002/03 and remained in contact as both players went into coaching at the end of their careers.”
Earlier in the day, Perth SC released a statement saying Hay was leaving the club by mutual agreement to “pursue an opportunity overseas.”
READ MORE: Former All Whites coach Danny Hay to leave Perth after links with Auckland FC >>>>
The two announcements ended speculation that Hay was in the frame to join Auckland FC.
WATCH: Auckland FC duo outline plans ahead of inaugural A-League season >>>>
Auckland FC chief executive Nick Becker said: “Steve and (director of football) Terry McFlynn have conducted a rigorous process for the recruitment of every position in our coaching team.
“Danny Hay was easily the best candidate for the role. He brings a shared philosophy and desire to play high-tempo, attacking football.
“Throughout the whole process, Hay showed a genuine passion for New Zealand football and the development of young talented players in the game.”
Corica said: “I have personally known Danny for over 20 years, and we are all looking forward to having him join our staff. His football knowledge and experience, especially across the New Zealand footballing landscape is impressive.
“He will be invaluable to us as we continue to build out our inaugural Men’s squad and start to prepare for the 2024/25 season.”
Hay said: “I’ve known Steve Corica for over two decades, and I have always been impressed by his level of professionalism and passion for the game. That has really shone through at Auckland FC with the level of expertise that is already around the club.
“Personally, it’s a huge opportunity to continue to develop as a coach and to be part of something that could truly change the landscape of football in Auckland.”
Hay left his role as head coach of the New Zealand men’s national team in late 2022, and was appointed to the Perth SC role in May 2023.
More football stories
