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Brad Arthur’s strong run with Leeds has intensified the race for Manly’s vacant coaching position.
Interim Manly coach Kieran Foran has been handed an early test in his push for the club's top job, as rival candidates continue to strengthen their cases. His tenure began in emphatic fashion, with Manly's 52-18 win over the Dolphins in his first match in charge, prompting immediate calls for the club legend to be appointed long-term.
Foran stepped into the role after Anthony Seibold was dismissed just three games into the season, having only recently joined the staff as an assistant. The result appeared to lift the squad and delivered Manly's first win of the NRL campaign. However, handing the role permanently to a first-time head coach would still carry risk given his limited experience.
Competition for the position remains strong. Former Manly hooker Matt Ballin, a two-time premiership winner, is widely viewed as a leading contender after building experience as an assistant at Brisbane and with Queensland under Billy Slater. Ex-Sea Eagles assistant Michael Ennis, now part of Shane Flanagan's staff at St George Illawarra, is also firmly in the mix.
Brad Arthur has also emerged as a serious candidate, bolstered by his recent success in England. The former Parramatta coach has guided Leeds to the top of the Super League ladder after five wins from their opening seven matches. The Rhinos sit level on 10 competition points with Wigan and St Helens, holding top spot on points differential, marking their strongest start at this stage of a season since 2020.
Arthur narrowly missed out on the inaugural PNG NRL coaching role, which went to Willie Peters, but is widely seen as a leading option for a return to the NRL. While he remains committed to Leeds, he has indicated a desire to return to Australia and set a 30 June deadline to determine his future.
Manly are understood to favour a coach with strong ties to the club, with all leading candidates sharing some connection. Foran is expected to be given further opportunity to press his case before the club formally begins its search, though Arthur's track record, including leading Parramatta to the 2022 grand final, presents a compelling alternative.
Even if Arthur is overlooked, his name is likely to feature prominently should other NRL vacancies arise, with pressure building on several current coaches across the competition.
