Aurelio Vidmar signs two-year deal to remain in charge of Melbourne City

Melbourne City has opted for ‘stability’ in retaining the same coaching staff for next season.

Aurelio Vidmar is looking forward to another two seasons in charge at Melbourne City. Picture: Robert Cianflone/Getty Images

Aurelio Vidmar has done enough to secure a new deal to coach Melbourne City for another two years.

Appointed in November until the end of the 2023-24 A-League season following the sacking of Rado Vidosic after just two games of the campaign, former Socceroo Vidmar guided City to a 10th successive finals appearance.

And while a sixth-placed ladder finish and an exit in week one of the finals was well short of what City had achieved in the previous four seasons, it was sufficient for Vidmar to earn a contract until 2026.

Aurelio Vidmar is happy to be staying at Melbourne City for two more years. Picture: Daniel Pockett/Getty Images

“Aurelio is a firm believer in the way we want to play football and is committed to instilling the high standards and behaviours that we expect,” City’s director of football Michael Petrillo said.

“He lives and breathes the footballing methodology and philosophy of the club.”

Assistant coaches Raffaele Napoli, Scott Jamieson, and Sander Krabbendam will also all return next season.

“The most successful football teams around the world are built on a foundation of stability, strong culture, and consistency, and that has been no different for us,” Petrillo said.

“The importance of stability to our ambition of constant improvement cannot be understated.”

Vidmar, 57, said there was “still much work to be done” at City.

“Day one of pre-season can’t come soon enough,” the former Adelaide United coach said.

“City fans have had a lot to be proud of and I want them to know that my coaching staff and I are determined to ensure that continues.

“I’m excited for the challenges ahead and can’t wait to show our fans what we can do next season.”

City has also announced the retention of key attacking part Mathew Leckie and Andrew Nabbout for at least another two years each.

“Their talent, leadership and professionalism make them incredibly valuable members of our squad both on and off the pitch,” Petrillo said.

Socceroos star Leckie, 33, said he had “unfinished business” to take care of.

“I’ll be doing everything I can to ensure we’re back fighting for silverware over the next two years,” he said.

Originally published as Aurelio Vidmar signs two-year deal to remain in charge of Melbourne City