Brad Arthur's hopes of coaching Perth in their 2027 NRL debut appear to be fading, with reports from Australia suggesting the job will instead go to the high-profile duo of Sam Burgess and Mal Meninga.
Arthur, currently at the helm of Leeds Rhinos, had long been tipped as the frontrunner for the new franchise. He was even interviewed for the role last week.
But according to Triple M’s Brent Read, Perth’s powerbrokers have since shifted their focus to what would be an unprecedented co-coaching arrangement between two rugby league icons.
Burgess and Meninga now ‘favourites for the role’
“From day dot, Brad has been the front-runner to the point where there were suggestions that Brad was practically guaranteed the job,” Read said on Triple M.
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“But the story today is that Mal and Sam have now gone past Brad. They are the favourites for the role, potentially as co-coaches of that team in its inaugural season and over the next 12 months as they piece together a team.”
Burgess would have to step away from his post at Warrington to take the job, while Meninga is expected to give up his position as Kangaroos coach if the deal is finalised. The NRL is reportedly eager to have Perth’s coaching structure locked in soon to allow ample time for squad building ahead of the club’s maiden campaign.
“It definitely sounds like Mal and Sam are the favourites for that job,” Read added. “The NRL have stressed that it’s not done, but that was the mail we got today – Mal and Sam are the preferred candidates.”
The development, hence, leaves Arthur’s long-term future at Leeds up in the air, with Rhinos fans now hoping the club can persuade him to stay on beyond the current season.