Leicester Tigers have appointed Michael Cheika, former head coach of the Wallabies and Argentina, as their new head coach, replacing the departing Dan McKellar.
Remarkably, Cheika becomes the Tigers’ eighth head coach since January 2017, following Richard Cockerill’s dismissal, as the club seeks stability and success after a period of frequent changes.
Former player Richard Cockerill was in charge at Welford Road from 2009 to 2017. However, since then, there has been a revolving door of coaches due to fluctuating form and international opportunities.
Revolving door
Aaron Mauger took over from Cockerill in 2017, followed by Matt O’Connor (2017-2018). Geordan Murphy, a club legend, then held the post from 2018 to 2020.
Subsequently, former Ireland international Steve Borthwick (2020-2022) took over before Richard Wigglesworth served as caretaker boss for five months.
Following Wigglesworth, Dan McKellar arrived from the Brumbies. Despite a 53% win record and a Premiership finish in eighth place, McKellar was relieved of his duties.
Leicester Tigers are banking on Cheika to lead them forward as he joins on a two-year contract. Tigers CEO Andrea Pinchen expressed her delight in securing his services, stating, “We’re very pleased to appoint someone of Michael’s experience and successful track record to the role of head coach.” Cheika will begin his tenure on July 1st.
Pinchen highlighted Cheika’s extensive achievements over more than two decades, including winning trophies, developing players and coaches, and fostering team unity to achieve their highest potential.
“We want that, we need that, and we believe Michael is the right person to guide this team and club back to where we belong.
“I acknowledge that the past week hasn’t met the expectations of our fans, or ours, but the decisions we’ve made are for Leicester Tigers’ long-term benefit. Following extensive and candid discussions with Michael in recent days, we are aligned on what is necessary to restore this club to its rightful place at the top.”
Cheika recently guided Los Pumas to a fourth-place finish at the Rugby World Cup 2023 and boasts a remarkable track record with successes at Leinster, the Waratahs, and the Wallabies, underscoring his impressive CV.
“Honestly, I wasn’t considering the Premiership and didn’t have the desire to coach in it until Leicester Tigers approached me. However, the opportunity to coach at Tigers and lead this group of players caught my attention,” he said of his appointment.
“I want this to be my best coaching effort yet. I aim for our preparation and leadership to be at the highest level. When I bring my best, others will follow suit, and positive outcomes will follow around us.”
“Clearly, we have a top-quality roster at the club. I admit I’m still getting to know each player thoroughly, but that’s my priority in the coming months: understanding them inside out to maximize their potential.
“However, a roster is just on paper. The real challenge is forging a strong team dynamic, blending these talented players and their personalities, and ensuring they enjoy playing together. It’s about creating a style of play that they embrace and that truly represents Leicester Tigers when they step onto the field.”
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