It's supposedly the most ruthless coaching gig in Australian football.

In a busy day for the club, Melbourne Victory announced that their coach would sign a two-year contract extension the same day as appointing Trent Jacobs as the successor to Ian Robson in the CEO role. 

Combined, Muscat and Jacobs signify over 22 years of dedication to Victory - a unique position for an A-League club CEO and coach to represent. Chairman, Anthony Di Pietro, is another long-serving figure at the club, and said Muscat was an "excellent coach". 

“Kevin has shown that he’s an excellent coach and we’re delighted to secure him for the next two seasons,” Di Pietro said.

But despite the smiles and handshakes, it hasn't all been smooth sailing for Musky this season.

Despite a relatively strong squad, Victory struggled for the opening half of the season, regularly disappointing against some of the competition's weakest teams.

The poor form of Carl Valeri and Matias Sanchez were amplified by the departure of Mark Milligan, but while Muscat's recruitment was largely blamed, were it not for the stellar performances of marquee signing Leroy George, it could have been a very different picture.

Victory now sit fourth in the A-League after an impressive uptake, while they're equal on points with K-League outfit Ulsan Hyundai in their Asian Champions League group, but third on goal difference. 

Rather than look outwards to broaden Victory's options, however, Di Pietro made mention of a more insular philosophy. Looking to further support the club legend, they believe, will lead to greater success.

“We identified that we would benefit from an increased level of support around the head coach, to enable an even more targeted and focused approach to list management and recruitment, as well as increasing integration between our youth and senior programs," he said.
 
“We will be looking to add resources around Kevin and we will keep our members and fans informed as this unfolds. In the interim though, our focus is on achieving the best results in the A-League and Champions League.”

The Asian Champions League may be key to Muscat's continued support from the board. Victory have never made it past the second round, but their 31st position in the AFC club rankings is hardly an impressive result for Australia's biggest club.

Muscat noted the club's standards, and said he will be looking to deliver success this year.

“I’m obviously very pleased to be able to lead the club for a further two seasons and I'm honoured the Board has given me that opportunity,” Muscat said.

“I’m excited about what is ahead and can assure our members and fans that we will continually be looking at ways to deliver the best outcomes for the club.

“My mind is on the here and now, to deliver the best results in the two competitions we’re involved in. The standards at this club are extremely high and we will be looking to deliver success this year.”