Sydney FC Assistant Coach David Zdrilic is moving on to the next stage of his coaching career after being offered the opportunity of a Head Coach role.
Zdrilic becomes the latest Sky Blues coach to ascend into a lead role via Sydney FC’s coaching pathway following the likes of Rob Stanton, Giancarlo Italiano, Alen Stajcic, Tony Popovic, Steve Corica and current Head Coach Ufuk Talay.
He joined the Sky Blues at the start of last season under former Head Coach Corica and remained in position when Talay took over the reins.
Under Talay’s stewardship Zdrilic helped fulfill Sydney FC’s football philosophy of dynamic, entertaining football which has long been central to the club’s DNA.
“I’d like to thank Sydney FC for giving me the opportunity to come back to Australia and help the club bring to life its football philosophy, while also progressing my own career and beliefs,” he said.
“Sydney FC has always had a special place in my heart having played and coached here in various guises.
“It has a fantastic future, built on solid foundations and a great culture, and I wish the club the best.”
In the A-League Men’s 2023-24 season, eight of the twelve Head Coaches had developed through Sydney FC as a coach, a player or both.
It’s a number which could rise with Auckland entering next season’s competition under Sydney FC Hall Of Fame Member and long-time servant Steve Corica.
Ufuk Talay wished Zdrilic well in his move.
“I’m delighted Sydney FC has been able to help his career progression,” he said.
“He has performed a great job for us and fully deserves his chance.
“We all have to take the next step on our coaching journey, and we will bring in a new, excellent Assistant Coach who will benefit and learn from our philosophy and culture.”
Zdrilic began his coaching journey at Sydney FC as the club’s NPL 1st grade assistant and under 20’s Head Coach, before moving to RB Leipzig to work in their youth Academy.
He subsequently took up assistant coaching roles at Chicago Fire, K.V. Oostende and Genoa before moving back to Sydney FC.
