Michael Maguire’s abrupt departure from his role as NSW coach to take on the head coach position at the Brisbane Broncos has reportedly upset Blues officials, sparking conversations about his potential successor for the state job. On Tuesday morning, Maguire’s resignation from the Blues and his new appointment at the Broncos, replacing the dismissed Kevin Walters, were both confirmed. The NSW Rugby League Board issued a statement recognizing Maguire’s achievement in leading the Blues to a notable series victory this year and extended their best wishes to the 50-year-old.
According to Channel 9’s Danny Weidler, there is some “tension” behind the scenes regarding Michael Maguire’s exit from NSW, despite the public announcements. Weidler, speaking on *The Big Sports Breakfast* on Tuesday, said, “The Blues organization is not happy.” He explained that when the Blues learned of the Broncos’ interest in Maguire, they were frustrated since Maguire had pushed for a two-year deal with NSW.
Weidler added that Maguire conducted a review for NSW late last week without mentioning the Broncos’ opportunity, which didn’t sit well with the organization. However, Weidler noted that any bad feelings likely won’t prevent Maguire from returning to the Blues job in the future.
Weidler also revealed that former Blues coach Laurie Daley has emerged as one of “three to four” top contenders for the role. When Weidler mentioned that influential figures in the game were backing Daley for the position, Daley, who co-hosts *The Big Sports Breakfast*, avoided addressing it. However, his co-host, former Australian cricket captain Michael Clarke, suggested Daley could be interested but has earned the right not to formally apply for the job.
Daley coached the Blues to a drought-breaking 2014 series win but finished with a modest 6-9 win-loss record as he coached against a Queensland team littered with some of the best players ever to play the game.
“Have them come and ask him,” Clarke said of the prospect of Daley coaching NSW again. “This is only what I believe. But if somebody asks him, I think Loz will do it.
“If Loz has to apply, no chance. He’s been there, done that. He’s earned the right now. If New South Wales want him, come and ask him.”
The NRL 360 panel discussed Maguire’s exit on Monday night with veteran Daily Telegraph journalist Phil Rothfield saying qutting to take the Broncos job should not be held against him.
“I’m not dirty on him at all and I think Origin jobs are temporary,” Rothfield said.
“They’re not head coaching roles. It’s not big money, it’s for eight weeks and a lot of work on the side … and when a bigger opportunity (comes up) … the Broncos coaching job is probably the number one gig in the game.”
Former NSW Blues player Braith Anasta added: “I’m just more disappointed than anything because now we’ve got to find someone else to replicate what he’s done, which is going to be hard to do.”