A-League club Melbourne City has announced that interim senior coach Michael Valkanis will remain in charge of the club until the end of season 2016-17.
The 42-year-old former assistant to John van ‘t Schip, took the reins following the sudden resignation of the coach early in January. Van ‘t Schip returned to Holland to be with his terminally ill father who has since passed away.
Since taking over the job, Valkanis has coached City to wins against Western Sydney Wanderers, Central Coast Mariners and an unlucky away defeat to his former club Adelaide United. City currently sits in third place on the A-League table, with 10 rounds remaining until the finals.
The announcement by City indicates that Valkanis has convinced the powers that be that he’s a safe pair of familiar hands and can lead the team to the finals.
Managing director of City Football Services Brian Marwood commented on the decision to appoint Valkanis till the end of the season.
“Michael has been a key member of our coaching structure this season. His approach and philosophy are completely aligned with the way we want Melbourne City to be managed. This, combined with his A-League experience and tactical capabilities, make him the right person to lead the team for the remainder of the season.”
Melbourne City FC vice chairman Simon Pearce said: “As a club we are completely focused on achieving the remaining objectives we set ourselves for the season. In the board’s view, Michael’s appointment puts us in the very best possible position to do that.”
Commenting on the club website, Valkanis reacted to his appointment saying “the next few months represent an important period for the first team”.
“The players and staff collectively recognise the challenge and opportunity that the second half of the season presents and I am incredibly motivated by the responsibility and the opportunity to guide the team for the remainder of the campaign.”
For Valkanis, the appointment as coach to the end of the season gives him a further opportunity to stake a claim for the job beyond the current season. If he were to lead the team to its first ever A-League grand final, it would help establish his credentials as an A-League coach.
On the other hand, the decision also gives the City group time to consider and scout other coaching options as well, rather that rushing in to a coaching contract.