EXCLUSIVE: Australia has produced talented managers who’ve made their mark at World Cups, Club World Cups, Asian Champions Leagues, A-Leagues, NSLs and Asian Cups – we rate them from ten to one. But this was no easy task as most if not all managers found success in different competitions over different times with differing sets of squads – and resources – at their disposal. It was tough to lock down the final ten with some well-known names just missing out. So here it is… but what do you think?
10: Aurelio Vidmar
His coaching of Adelaide United in 2008 was a masterclass as the relatively inexperienced coach took the unheralded A-League side all the way to the Asian Champions League final.
This was no mean feat given the latter stages of the tournament were played while the club was battling on the A-League front. More than this, the style of play caught the eye as they defeated the likes of Pohang Steelers home and away, Kashima Antlers in the quarters and Bunyodkor (featuring Rivaldo) in the semis before Gamba Osaka put an end to their eye-catching adventure.
He also took Adelaide to the Club World Cup in 2008 where the side performed creditably defeating Al Ahly for fifth spot.
Vidmar is now guiding the next generation of Socceroos as Olyroo coach.
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