Penrith Panthers coach Ivan Cleary will step down following the 2027 NRL season as head coach as he looks to taper off at the backend of his coaching career.
The club held an announcement last week, where Peter Wallace will take over as head coach in a succession plan to Cleary in 2028, following four-straight premierships from 2021 to 2024.
Cleary will be involved in a cultural and leadership role off the paddock following his tenure as head coach, but also revealed an important clue to where his future may lie.
During the press-conference, Cleary admitted he would be open to the idea of coaching a representative side if they deemed him fit for the role.
With plenty of options available for Cleary's services, there will be no-doubt lots of representative organisations ready to have him sign on the dotted line.
1. New South Wales
Pressure is mounting on NSW head coach Laurie Daley following the shock series loss in 2025, where the Blues no-doubt had the stronger side on paper but failed to land the killer blow in the decider in Sydney.
It's almost a similar story this year, and if the Maroons get the jump on NSW, the board will most certainly be assessing its options moving forward.
Daley has coached NSW on 18 occasions, coming away with only seven wins to record a negative win rate.
Cleary is a proven winner in big games. It's shown on his illustrious record sheet. Penrith's dominance can be put down to high-effort in key areas and getting the best out of their squad members. With Cleary looking to taper off and edging closer to retirement, three games a year would fit his criteria.
The introduction of Cleary into the Blues could kick-off a dynasty in NSW, with plenty of the NRL's most elite talent putting their hand up for selection.
I can’t see him going to the Warriors, because he has stated that he doesn’t want to coach a side in competition with Penrith.
I’d think NSW is the top probability. He would not have to move home, for starters.
If Nathan goes to one of the UK clubs to be close to his girl, then maybe Ivan might look at a Super League gig.