On the 15th anniversary of Adelaide United’s first-ever match, Adelaide also unveiled Nathan Kosmina as permanent Chief Executive Officer. 

Vidmar, who skippered United in the last season of his career before they joined the A-League, was John Kosmina's assistant before becoming head coach for a rollercoaster three years.

He took the side to the final of the Asian Champions League but outspoken press conference comments about Adelaide being a "pissant town" and "beheading players like they do in Saudi Arabia" marred his time in charge,

He left in 2010 to take charge of the Olyroos and U20s and was replaced at the Reds by Rini Coolen.

Now he's back as Director of Football on a three year deal, overseeing German coach Marco Kurz - but Vidmar admitted he had yet to speak to the manager.

“I’m very excited to be back at Adelaide United," he said today. “It’s quite a different role to previously.

"But I’ve known Piet van der Pol (Adelaide United’s Chairman) for quite a long time and when he approached me about his ideas, they immediately piqued my interest. 

“In football there are always things that can improve, but what’s important is maintaining great relationships with everyone in the South Australian football community across male, female, and youth participation. 

“Some of these improvements are going to take more time than others, but I think the future is definitely looking bright for Adelaide United and football in this state.” 

Meanwhile, Kosmina, 35, joined Adelaide United in August 2016 as the Club’s Community Football Manager before assuming the role of Acting CEO in August 2017. 

Prior to becoming part of the Reds’ administrative team, Kosmina was Football Federation Australia’s Operations Coordinator for the FFA Cup and National Premier Leagues. He also spent time at Football Federation South Australia as both their Sponsorship and Facilities Manager and Football Development Officer.  

“I’m honoured to become the permanent CEO of Adelaide United,” Kosmina said. “I’m privileged to have the opportunity to work in a sport and for a club that I am so passionate about.

“Adelaide United has always meant something special to me and I look forward to contributing to the club’s continued growth.” 

Adelaide United Chairman, Piet van der Pol, said he is thrilled to have Vidmar return to the club, saying:  “Aurelio has an extensive background in football and I know he will serve our club very well as our Director of Football. 

“He is a proud South Australian who has represented Adelaide United excellently in the past, both as head coach and our first captain, not to mention his involvement within the Socceroos set-up. 

“Not only was he an exceptional player, but he also has a wealth of experience as a coach locally, nationally, and internationally – all of which will be invaluable in helping our club continue to move forward.”