Melbourne Victory coach Patrick Kisnorbo has shocked the A-League by quitting the club days out from the local derby with cross-town rivals Melbourne City to pursue an overseas opportunity.
Kisnorbo was only installed as Victory coach in June, replacing Tony Popovic, after being dumped by French club Troyes following an unsuccessful stint with the Ligue 1 club.
He had taken Victory to third on the A-League table after getting them to the final of the Australia Cup.
But in a move that will send shockwaves through the competition and was labelled “disappointing” by club chairman John Dovaston, Kisnorbo has quit with immediate effect, with his new destination unclear.
Kisnorbo will be replaced by senior assistant coach Arthur Diles to bring “stability and continuity” to the shell-shocked playing squad.
“We are disappointed to see Patrick depart the club so early in his expected journey with us; however, Patrick has advised us that this is an opportunity he wanted to take for his own development as a coach,” Dovaston said.
The club’s managing director, Caroline Carnegie, said Diles would be “well equipped” to take over and would be in charge for Saturday’s showdown with fourth-placed City at AAMI Park.
“We thank Patrick for his service and wish him all the best,” she said.
“As our attention turns to the rest of the season, we know Arthur is in an excellent position to further build on the strong foundations established as we ultimately strive for silverware.
“Arthur has a deep understanding of the team’s dynamics and is well equipped to ensure stability, maintain focus and provide leadership as the team moves forward.”
More to come