Steve Corica leaves Auckland FC after historic A-League title triumph

Auckland FC’s inaugural head coach Steve Corica is leaving the club after the side’s maiden A-League title.

Corica joined Auckland FC in January 2024, becoming the club’s first-ever coach. After two impressive seasons, he will leave Auckland FC to pursue an opportunity overseas.

He will take over as coach at Yokohama F. Marinos in Japan’s J-League.

Corica departs leaving his mark on Auckland having delivered two major trophies in his two seasons – 24/25 Premiers and 25/26 Champions. He will also be remembered for his development of young, talented Kiwis.

“It has been a fantastic two years with a city, a fan group and a team that have all been way beyond my expectations,” Corica said

“I didn’t know quite what I was getting into when I joined two years ago, but what an experience it has been.

“We started with nothing. Then year one we’re Premiers, winning the first piece of A-League silverware for any Kiwi club, and then year two we’re riding a bus down the middle of Queen St parading the Championship Trophy.

“It has been an incredible journey. Right from the very beginning, from game one, the city came out to support us. I’ll remember that and be forever grateful.”

The search for a new coach will now begin, led by Auckland FC director of football Terry McFlynn.

Corica’s departure comes after the exit of star players Jesse Randall, Guillermo May and Dan Hall.

Auckland FC’s majority owner Bill Foley praised Corica.

“Right from the start, we wanted to set Auckland FC up with the best coach in the A-League and Steve was the obvious candidate. He had won it as a player and as a coach at Sydney FC.

“He was also committed to launching the club into the community, building a team that would be competitive from the start and creating pathways for talented young players.

“We wish Steve all the best in his new role and he is always welcome back at the Black Knights.”

In a post on LinkedIn, Auckland FC co-owner Anna Mowbray said Corica left big boots to fill.

“At Auckland FC, Steve built a winning culture, earned the respect of every player, and delivered the Premiership and the A-League Championship - in just two seasons. The first New Zealand club to do any of it,” said Mowbray.

“Steve had already built an exceptional football career. Grand final wins as a player with Marconi and Sydney FC, over 100 appearances for Wolverhampton Wanderers, and seasons in Japan and England. The J1 League is his next logical chapter.

“Auckland FC was built to attract the best. Steve has set a formidable precedent. Steve, you’ve left big boots to fill. The game’s better for having you in it.

“As for Auckland FC, we remain as ambitious as ever and will begin the process to recruit a manager that reflects this. Football is a lot of things but never dull.”