NRL 2024: Penrith Panthers NSW State of Origin stars disappointed to lose Michael Maguire, back Ivan Cleary as successor

Penrith’s NSW stars have expressed their disappointment in losing Blues coach Michael Maguire to the Broncos, but have backed Ivan Cleary as a potential successor. HAVE YOUR SAY.

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – NewsWire Photos SEPTEMBER 26, 2024: Penrith Panthers coach Ivan Cleary pictured speaking to media at Panthers Rugby League Academy, Penrith. Picture: NewsWire / Damian Shaw

Penrith’s contingent of NSW stars are “disappointed” to lose Michael Maguire to the Brisbane Broncos but have backed their own in Ivan Cleary as a worthy replacement as the next head coach for the Blues.

Maguire was officially announced as Brisbane’s new coach from 2025, ending his short tenure at the helm of the Blues after a famous series win in this year’s decider at Suncorp Stadium in July.

It leaves Blues bosses on the hunt for a new coach.

It’s expected the likes of Canterbury general manager Phil Gould and former Blues coach Laurie Daley will be considered for the role. As will a crop of up and coming coaches like Michael Ennis, Ben Hornby, Dean Young, Brett White and Matt King.

Canberra coach Ricky Stuart was open to juggling his club role and leading the Blues before Maguire was eventually appointed in November last year.

Panthers and Blues hardman Liam Martin said Cleary would be the perfect fit for the role and could juggle both his NRL and State of Origin commitments.

Penrith‘s Origin stars have backed Ivan Cleary as a worthy replacement for Michael Maguire as NSW coach. Picture: NewsWire / Damian Shaw

“Absolutely he could do it. I might be a bit biased but I think he’s incredible,” Martin said.

“The culture that Ivan has built here, he would handle that environment brilliantly.

“He’s just like Madge (Maguire), Ivan is the kind of coach that you want to play harder for, the kind of coach you are willing to give you all for. I think he would be fantastic if did do that role.”

“Whoever fills that role will take what Madge has done and keep ingraining that passion and love for the jersey.”

Powerhouse winger Brian To’o echoed Martin’s sentiments.

“Ivan is another man that is fit for the job. He brings that aura that every player wants to play their best for him,” To’o said.

Ivan Cleary has coached four NRL clubs but is yet to dabble in the Origin arena. Pictures: Nic Walker

Skipper Isaah Yeo said Cleary had all the right attributes to lead the state but conceded the three-time premiership winning coach is squarely focused on Penrith’s dynasty.

“I’m not sure if he’d put his hand up for it or not. All I know is, Ivan would be wonderful in that arena,” Yeo said.

“The way he’s been for me as a player and the way he is able to get the best out of you is incredible. He’ll do a wonderful job if given the reins there. Whether he’d put his hand up, I’m not sure, he’s very integrated at Penrith.

“I’d be surprised if it happened but rugby league can be a funny world.”

Martin admitted hearing the news that Maguire would be giving up the Blues coaching gig for the Broncos was disheartening.

But the hard-nosed backrower pledged carry on Maguire’s legacy which was built on a passion for the Blues jumper.

“Personally, I’m a little disappointed but that’s because I loved playing under him,” Martin said.

Liam Martin admitted he was disappointed Michael Maguire wouldn’t be coaching the Blues anymore. Picture: Dan Peled / NewsWire

“Everyone talks about his passion but to experience that and to see how much it meant to him it drove you as a player.

“It forced you to question why playing for the Blues means so much to you.

“I’m going to miss that.

“Also, the fact that he would go above and beyond for you. He wanted you as a player to have these experiences that you will cherish for a lifetime.

“It made you play a little bit harder for him. It’s going to be disappointing but he deserves another crack coaching NRL.

Michael Maguire’s contribution to the Blues won’t be forgotten. Picture: Richard Dobson

“What he’s done will set the Blues up for years, we are in a better place because of him.”

Yeo said Blues players did not begrudge Maguire, who guided South Sydney to a title in 2014, and that the opportunity to coach the Broncos was too good to refuse.

“He was open with wanting to be an NRL coach again,” Yeo said.

“When a job like the Broncos all of a sudden pops up, timing is a weird thing he probably didn’t expect it so soon, I feel like you’d be mad to turn it down.

“Honestly, he was outstanding for us this season. I feel like the way he handled the preparation, the culture and the buy-in from the players set us up for a series win.

“I can’t wrap him enough.

“It would have been nice to have him around a bit longer but it’s not to be. He’ll do a wonderful job up there.”