Ufuk Talay today told 1News that he is considering applying for the position of All Whites coach.
Danny Hay, the departing coach, decided not to seek re-appointment, hence the position will become vacant at the end of the month.
“Coaching a national team is always interesting for me being the sole club at the Wellington Phoenix and maybe aligning with New Zealand football will help the New Zealand football and club at the same time,” said Talay.
He’s willing to discuss, even if New Zealand Football hasn’t gotten in touch with him yet.
Yes, I would be interested in speaking with you if there is any interest.
In order to create a young team with a solid Kiwi core, Talay joined the Phoenix in 2019. The 46-year-old enjoyed a successful start to his management career with Wellington when he guided them to their first-ever top-three finish.
As a result of his performance and his decision to stay with Wellington despite offers from rival clubs, he was elected A-League coach of the year in 2020.
Since then, Talay has led the team through challenging Covid-affected seasons played in Australia, compiling a W-D-L record of 37-16-32.
But whether Talay seeks to run both the Phoenix and New Zealand operations might be a discussion point for his future promotion to the All Whites.
Ricki Herbert, who coached both teams from 2007 to 2013, set a precedent.
If it gets to that point, there would need to be a lot of discussion, and in my opinion, it would only work if there were no international matches during the A-League season and the FIFA window.
For more information tonight at 6pm on 1News,
The Wellington Phoenix coach makes a bid for the All Whites position.
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