Ange Postecoglou Slams Australian Football as ‘Barren’

Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou believes Australian football is still struggling with long standing issues. He says the sport in Australia hasn’t made much progress and describes it as “not the most fertile of ground” for growth and development.

Despite these challenges Ange Postecoglou one of the most influential figures in Australian football. Which is encouraged by the current season in the A-League. He believes that the quality of on field action has improved and is confident. That young Australian players will continue to make their mark on the international stage.

Ange Postecoglou arrived in Melbourne early Tuesday morning for Spurs’ post season friendly against Newcastle United at the MCG on Wednesday night. This match is a special homecoming for Postecoglou, a proud Victorian and dedicated Carlton supporter in the AFL.

Former Brisbane Roar and Melbourne Victory coach Ange Postecoglou commented that football in Australia has remained stagnant despite a turbulent 18 months.

Speaking at the Global Football Week Lunch in Melbourne, he remarked, “How long have you got? Football in Australia is football in Australia. I don’t think too much has changed.”

Former Brisbane Roar and Melbourne Victory coach Ange Postecoglou expressed his belief that football in Australia remains in a holding pattern, even after a turbulent 18 months. Speaking at the Global Football Week Lunch in Melbourne, he humorously remarked, “How long have you got? Football in Australia is football in Australia. I don’t think too much has changed.”

Postecoglou highlighted that the sport still faces long standing challenges that have persisted over the years. Despite these issues, he acknowledged the unique and impactful contributions of Australian football on the global stage.

Ange Postecoglou pointed out that, despite the challenges facing Australian football, there are still many positives. He noted that young male players continue to move to Europe to advance their careers. While female players are achieving remarkable success.

Sometimes the most barren ground produces the most beautiful things,” Postecoglou said. “I think that’s true for football in Australia. Despite the difficulties, we see amazing talent emerging and making an impact on the world stage.

Even while overseas, Ange Postecoglou remains a dedicated viewer of the A-League. Which has been impressed by the crowd numbers and atmosphere during the current finals series. “I still follow the A-League.

If you walk into my office most mornings, it’ll be on in the background,” he shared. He praised the efforts of teams like Central Coast and Wellington, saying, “They have done a fantastic job this year.” Postecoglou’s continued support and keen observation of the league highlight his enduring connection to Australian football.

Postecoglou expressed his delight in witnessing clubs that haven’t been in contention for a while stepping up to the challenge. He finds it refreshing to see these underdog clubs competing at a high level after a period of absence from the limelight.

Ange Postecoglou praised Central Coast for their remarkable journey, emphasizing not only their achievements. But also the manner in which they’ve achieved them. He commended their reliance on young players, highlighting their commitment to nurturing and developing emerging talent.

Meanwhile, Tottenham embarked on an overseas tour with a formidable 24-man squad following their successful conclusion to the Premier League season. Their victory over Sheffield United secured fifth place, providing momentum as they head into their tour.

Postecoglou expressed disappointment with Tottenham’s finish to the season, especially after their strong start. Where they accumulated 26 out of a possible 30 points. However, their momentum was halted by injuries, which hindered their performance.

Despite this setback, Postecoglou noted “decent progress” over his first English Premier League campaign. Looking ahead, he believes that a return to European competition in the 2024-25 season will be crucial for providing increased game time. Which will aid in the development of his squad.

For the third year in a row, Ange Postecoglou returned to Australia for the post season, having previously visited with Celtic in 2022 and Tottenham last year. This time, he expressed eagerness to break his losing streak on home soil, particularly at the MCG on Wednesday. Postecoglou sees this as an opportunity to turn the tide and secure a victory, making his visit back home even more significant.

Ange Postecoglou humorously acknowledged his less than ideal track record in friendly games, admitting that he hasn’t secured a win against Australia in the past three years. He expressed a strong desire to change that narrative, stating his intention to start afresh on Wednesday night.

Postecoglou sees this upcoming match as an opportunity to turn his luck around and finally secure a victory, hoping to break his streak of losses against his home country.