The lastest upheaval sees a changing of the guard in four key positions including the exit of highly successful Head of High Performance, Andrew Clark.

Clark will be replace by sports scientist Chris Pappas, whiled famed A-League striker Smeltz - who played for Sydney between 2014-16) comes in as the Sky Blues new U20s assistant working under Giancarlo Italiano.

The Sky Blues National Youth League coach Rob Stanton will join the the first team as assistant coach alongside new recruit Ufuk Talay. Meanwhile former Young Socceroos, Central Coast Mariners and Western Sydney Wanderers analyst Justin McMahon joins the club as the new Head of Football Analysis, replacing Doug Kors.

Head Coach Coach Steve Corica welcomed Pappas to his new role and praised Clark for his enormous contribution over the last four years.

“Clarky has had a huge impact at this club over the past four years and on behalf of everyone I’d like to thank him for the fantastic job he did.

“He has been an integral part of our success and he leaves with our best wishes for the future.

“I am delighted we have been able to replace him with one of the best young sports scientists in the country and someone the players know well.

“Chris’ knowledge of our current squad is excellent, having worked with them before and this will make the transition much easier.

“Chris has extensive experience in football and across other codes and will be able to bring all of that knowledge to bear at Sydney FC."

Pappas  worked alongside Clark and the Sky Blues players over recent seasons and is well versed in the performance attributes of the squad. The 32-year old has extensive experience working in sport having consulted for the NRL, Cricket NSW, Football NSW and Athletics Australia. In addition, he has spent a number of years developing and preparing young footballers for trials with top European clubs.

Corica added: “His methods have already been taken on board by the players and he fits into our club’s culture well.”

Clark, who moves on to take up another opportunity, praised the club and hinted at a possible future return.

“I had four amazing years at Sydney FC, winning all three major domestic trophies, and the club will always remain dear to me,” Clark said.

“I’d like to thank everyone at the club from the Board of Directors, to the coaches, the staff and our Members.

“I will always support the club and one day would like to be a part of the Sky Blues again. I wish Chris all the best in the role, he is a first-class sports scientist and will do an exceptional job for the club.”

Meanwhile Corica said Stanton had earned his A-League coaching gig after bringing through youth prospects Chris Zuvela and Charles Lokoli-Ngoy, and a number of other young players set to challenge for first team recognition this season.

“Rob has proven time and time again how good a coach he is, especially with the work he has done getting our NPL 1st grade promoted and keeping them there,” Corica said.

“He has also worked with our under 20’s to turn them into one of the best teams in the competition and his knowledge and attention to detail will be a huge advantage to us.

“Rob has worked regularly with our Hyundai A-League squad for the last three years and his drive and commitment have been outstanding, so I am delighted he has agreed to become our assistant coach.”