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.
5. New Zealand Kiwis
With that strong Warriors history, the connection can also be drawn towards the Kiwis, with the fans no-doubt getting right behind him. Cleary would thrive towards the rise to challenge Australia as the number one rugby league country, as historically the Aussies have dominated on the world scale over the Kiwis.
The privilege of coaching elite talent such as Kalyn Ponga, Jahrome Hughes, and Joseph Tapine may play on his mind for making a decision. Cleary would understand the cultural importance of the sport across the Tasman and be able to successfully bring the best out of his playing group.
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.