Former Socceroos captain Mark Milligan to join Malaysia coaching staff

A former Socceroos captain is leaving his job with Adelaide United to join the coaching staff of a national team from Asia.

Adelaide United coach Carl Veart admits the departure of former Socceroos captain Mark Milligan from the Reds coaching staff is a “big loss” and “disappointing”.

Milligan, who had been Veart’s assistant since 2022, has parted ways with the Adelaide club to take up a similar role with Malaysia’s national team, which is coached by Australian Peter Cklamovski.

“I’ve had the privilege of working with some fantastic players at the club since my arrival,” Milligan said.

“This is a wonderful place to work, for both players and staff.

“I wish the club all the best for the upcoming season, and I’ll be cheering on the Reds from afar.”

Veart, whose fifth-placed side meets Macarthur FC at Campbelltown Sports Stadium on Monday night, said Milligan was a “very ambitious coach”.

Thank you and good luck, Millsy ❤️

Adelaide United can confirm that Assistant Coach Mark Milligan has left the Club to take up an overseas opportunity.

Details → https://t.co/4yzoOMoNDqpic.twitter.com/MGGziB0A1r

— Adelaide United (@AdelaideUnited) January 4, 2025

“An opportunity has come up that he believes will help him develop further in his career,” Veart said.

“It’s a big loss for us, especially given the stage of the season we’re in and how well we’ve been progressing.

“That being said, it’s what Mark feels is best for him, and we have to respect that.

“We shake hands, wish him all the best, and know he’ll go on to become a fantastic coach. “It’s disappointing, but we’ve always maintained an open dialogue, and I know he’ll be successful in his next step.

“While I would have liked him to stay, I support him and his decision.”

Adelaide’s head of youth development Airton Andrioli and another of Veart’s assistants, Travis Dodd, will jointly assume Milligan’s previous coaching responsibilities for the rest of the season.

“It’s important that the playing group stays focused and that we maintain our momentum through this season,” Veart said.

“Our assistant coaches have stepped up and are doing a great job. As we move forward, we’ll look at what’s best for the club in terms of the staff and positions, but right now, it’s about ensuring the team stays united and ready for the games ahead.”

Carl Veart says it’s ‘disappointing’ that Mark Milligan has quit his job as Adelaide United’s assistant coach. Picture: Mark Brake/Getty Images

Veart was expecting a tough assignment for the Reds against a “tricky” Macarthur side chasing a third successive win.

“They’ve got a strong defensive structure, they sit deep, and they play a very efficient transition game,” Veart said.

“It’s something we’ve struggled with in previous seasons, but this year we’ve worked hard to address those transition moments.

“We’re expecting a tough match, especially playing away on a Monday night, but the boys are prepared.”

Originally published as Former Socceroos captain Mark Milligan to join Malaysia coaching staff