Sydney United coach Ante Jurić could be sensationally barred from leading his NPL men’s side into Sunday’s Round of 16 Australia Cup clash with Sydney FC.
On top of his NPL duties, Jurić is also the long-time coach of Sydney FC’s A-League Women’s side. This is the reason that the Sky Blues want to block the former Socceroo from leading United from the touchline on Sunday at Edensor Park.
Jurić was involved in a similar situation in 2021, when Jurić – as then coach of Sydney Olympic – was pitted against Sydney FC in an Australia Cup knockout match.
However, on that occasion, Sydney FC did not stand in his way.
Jurić has no official role with Sydney FC’s A-League Men’s side, solely the A-League Women’s team.
Furious United president Mark Ivančić told the Hrvatski Vjesnik that he was puzzled by the furore.
“Sydney FC is trying to bar Ante from leading our side into this important and historic clash, and we are not happy,” Ivančić said.
“This is exactly the same situation that unfolded a few years ago with Sydney Olympic and they let him coach. What is the difference this time?
“Ante is in a really difficult situation. He wants to coach United, this is a big game for him. He is an ambitious and talented coach. But he is caught in a difficult position because he also leads Sydney FC’s women’s team.
“I don’t think this situation is fair on Ante or on us.”
Jurić, who also coaches at Matraville Sports High School, has been juggling multiple roles for years with the A-League Women’s role.
He has coached Sydney FC women since 2017.
SU58 assistant Thomas Whiteside would be the obvious choice to step into the interim coach’s role for Sunday’s game.
However, Whiteside is also Jurić’s assistant for Sydney FC’s women’s team. It is understood he does not have the same non-compete clause in his contract.
The Australia Cup Round of 16 clash kicks off at 3pm Sunday, with a quarter final spot up for grabs.
United is currently seventh on the NSW NPL ladder.
Sydney FC have been contacted for comment.
