A-League: Alen Stajcic’s Central Coast Mariners coaching stint is over

Departing coach Alen Stajcic says he wants a ‘new challenge’ after lifting the Central Coast Mariners from A-League wooden spooners to title contenders.

Alen Stajcic has parted ways with the Central Coast Mariners. Picture: AAP Image/George Salpigtidis

Coach Alen Stajcic wants a “new challenge” after confirming his departure from the Central Coast Mariners.

As reported on Wednesday, Stajcic, and his assistant Nahuel Arrarte, have left the Gosford-based club after lifting them from the wooden spoon to a third-placed finish on the A-League ladder.

“After a long period of discussions and reflections I have decided that I want a new challenge and to go in a new direction in my coaching journey,” former Matildas coach Stajcic said.

“I came to the club in 2019 when it had just one win in 22 matches and when I was also at a crossroads in my career.

“I came here with enormous goodwill and today I leave with a lifetime of bonds, friendships and memories.

“I will be forever grateful. I believe I have repaid that faith and trust placed in me and I believe the club is in a much better position now than it was at that time.”

Alen Stajcic has parted ways with the Central Coast Mariners. Picture: AAP Image/Darren Pateman

Mariners CEO Shaun Mielekamp praised Stajcic and Arrarte for their contribution to the club.

“On behalf of everyone at the club I would like to thank Alen and Nahuel for their tremendous contribution to the club, that has resulted in delivering an outstanding season,” Mielekamp said.

“We wish them all the best in the future as they look to take on their next challenges.

“Alen and Nahuel came to the club to help restore pride and credibility.

I am confident that the legacy that Alen and Nahuel leave the club will remain with us going forward.”

“The focus is now to ensure the club continues to move forward and build upon the success of this season, and we are well progressed in setting up the structures for next season and once things are finalised we will make announcements accordingly.”

Stajcic, who was understood to be frustrated with a lack of financial support from Mariners chairman and owner Mike Charlesworth to improve the Central Coast squad for next season, has already been linked to the vacant Western United coaching job.