‘See what unfolds': Socceroo's future up in the air
A-League champions Melbourne City is intent on keeping Socceroos winger Marco Tilio at the club for at least another season following the completion of his latest loan spell from Scottish giants Celtic.
Tilio, 23, has completed back-to-back loan stints at City after returning to the club in February last year just seven months after leaving to join Celtic on a five-year deal.
Reports out of Scotland suggest that Celtic are keen to part ways with Tilio – who is with the Socceroos squad in Perth ahead of Thursday night's FIFA World Cup qualifier against Japan – on a permanent basis.
Tilio's impressive form in the second half of the A-League season has City keen for him to remain with the club – whether via a transfer or another loan – for a 2025-26 campaign that will include participation in the AFC Champions League Elite competition.
City officials are confident that if Sydney-born Tilio stays in the A-League for another season, it will be with the Melbourne club.
Tilio has made no secret of his desire to again test himself in European club football.
'That's the plan,' he said following City's 1-0 grand final win over Melbourne Victory last Saturday night at AAMI Park.
'I'll go away now, see what unfolds, what my options are and make the best decision that I feel for my career.'
Tilio's Socceroos teammate Daniel Arzani, who had a two-year loan spell at Celtic from 2018 to 2020, has been linked with a return to Scotland to join Hearts.
The 26-year-old playmaker's two-season Victory contract expires this month.
British entrepreneur Tony Bloom, who owns a 19.1 per cent stake in the Victory, is also set to become a part-owner of Hearts.
Meanwhile, title-winning City midfielder Steven Ugarkovic is set to leave the champions to rejoin Western Sydney Wanderers.
Ugarkovic, 30, spent the 2021-22 A-League season with the Wanderers after more than five years with the Newcastle Jets.
He joined City in 2023 after spending a season at Wellington Phoenix.
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- News.com.au
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News.com.au
an hour ago
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Mercury
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Where will Ange Postecoglou coach next after Tottenham sacking?
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The progression of the play, team and likelihood of reaching the aim of competing for the title next season and beyond, which guarantees Champions League competitiveness, is paramount. 'Which is why Ange should have stayed even had Spurs lost the Europa Final. Given the massive injury list, any team would have struggled. 'When at, or near full strength, the team was proven to be competitive, had invested in young players for the next few years, and with additional funds next season, could strengthen.' Postecoglou's statement after Tottenham sacking 'When I reflect on my time as Manager of Tottenham Hotspur my overriding emotion is one of pride,' Postecoglou said in a classy statement. 'The opportunity to lead one of England's historic football clubs and bring back the glory it deserves will live with me for a lifetime. Sharing that experience with all those who truly love this club and seeing the impact it had on them is something I will never forget. 'That night in Bilbao was the culmination of two years of hard work, dedication and unwavering belief in a dream. There were many challenges to overcome and plenty of noise that comes with trying to accomplish what many said was not possible. 'We have also laid foundations that mean this club should not have to wait 17 more years for their next success. I have enormous faith in this group of players and know there is much more potential and growth in them.' Ange Postecoglou's coaching record South Melbourne (1996–2000) Postecoglou began his managerial career at South Melbourne, leading the club to multiple National Soccer League titles. Australia U-20 (2000–2004) He managed the Australian U-20 team, gaining experience in international youth football. Australia U-23 (2007–2009) Postecoglou took charge of the U-23 team, preparing them for Olympic qualifiers and tournaments. Brisbane Roar (2009–2012) At Brisbane Roar, he achieved significant success, including winning the A-League Championship and Premiership. Melbourne Victory (2012-2013) Signed a three-year deal with Melbourne Victory but only had a season in charge before being appointed coach of the Socceroos. Australia National Team (2013–2017) As head coach, Postecoglou led the Socceroos to victory in the 2015 AFC Asian Cup and managed the team during the 2014 FIFA World Cup. Celtic (2019–2023) In Scotland, Postecoglou won five major trophies, including back-to-back Scottish Premiership titles and League Cups. Tottenham Hotspur (2023–2025) Postecoglou became the first Australian to manage a Premier League club. He led Spurs to a UEFA Europa League title in 2025, ending a 17-year trophy drought. Originally published as Where will Ange Postecoglou coach next after Tottenham sacking?
