NRL 2025: NSW Blues consider Laurie Daley to replace Michael Maguire as next State of Origin coach

Former Blues coach Laurie Daley has rocketed back into contention to replace Michael Maguire, as NSW prepare to make a decision ahead of the 2025 State of Origin series.

Former Blues coach Laurie Daley has surged into contention to replace Michael Maguire as the next NSW coach. Picture: AAP

Laurie Daley has increasing support to return as NSW State of Origin coach.

The major development has unfolded ahead of an anticipated decision from the NSWRL board on who will replace former Blues coach Michael Maguire.

The NSWRL announced a major sponsorship deal with Adidas on Friday, through until the end of 2029 for both the men and women’s NSW teams.

It has been viewed by well-placed sources as a strategic announcement that will provide momentum to appoint the next Blues coach, as early as next week.

Daley has powered into the discussion, providing the NSWRL can work through any issues related to any possible conflicts of interest with the 55-year-old’s employment arrangements with the TAB.

Daley may be forced to sever ties with the betting agency to take over as Blues coach, eight years after he was axed from the role.

Daley’s presence as a NSW legend in front of the playing group, fans and sponsors is believed to be of major appeal to sections of the NSWRL.

He won six of 15 games between 2013-17, crucially winning the series in 2014, becoming only the second man after Wayne Pearce to play, captain and coach a Blues side to a series win over Queensland.

Roosters assistant coach Matt King remains in contention, but Daley’s previous experience in the hot seat has emerged as an overwhelming factor.

Michael Ennis, Paul McGregor and Trent Barrett also remain key-figures in the candidate list for the Blues to consider.

Originally published as NRL 2025: NSW Blues consider Laurie Daley to replace Michael Maguire as next State of Origin coach