Patrick Kisnorbo will follow in the footsteps of Ange Postecoglou once more after being handed the permanent head coaching position at J-League club Yokohama F. Marinos.
Kisnorbo walked out on Melbourne Victory just seven games into this A-League Men season to take an assistant's role under the Marinos' English manager Steve Holland.
But when Holland was sacked a fortnight ago after picking up just one win from the Marinos' 11 opening games, Kisnorbo was handed the top gig on an interim basis.
That move has now been turned into a permanent position, with Kisnorbo tasked with dragging the five-time J-League champions off the bottom of the table.
"Taking the reins of such a prestigious club with a rich history and passionate fan base is a dream come true for me," Kisnorbo said.
"My goal is to foster a team that not only plays attractive and competitive football but also embodies the values that our supporters hold dear.
"Together we will strive for success, establishing a strong connection between the team and the community.
"I believe that football is not just a game; it's a shared experience that unites us all."
Kisnorbo follows the path blazed by Postecoglou and Kevin Muscat, both of whom led the club to titles in Japan.
The ex-Socceroos defender, who led Melbourne City to the ALM double in 2021, will be hoping for a smoother passage in his second taste of head coaching overseas.
The 44-year-old was appointed manager of Troyes in 2022, but could not save the club from relegation from the French top flight.
He had his contract terminated after more struggles in Ligue 2, the Australian axed after claiming just three wins across a 40-game span in France.
