Melbourne Victory have unveiled Marco Kurz as their new coach in his first official press conference since signing with the 2018 champions.

The German signed a two-year deal with the Victory last month, replacing Kevin Muscat after Adelaide United chose not to renew his contract for the upcoming season.

Speaking alongside club Chairman Anthony Di Pietro, Kurz spoke of the “honour” of becoming coach of the club and described the signing as “the right fit” for both parties as he looks ahead to taking charge of one of the biggest clubs in Australia.

“For me as a person the opportunity to coach a big club with a strong history, with passionate members, with a fantastic fanbase, is a great chance for me,” he said.

The 50-year-old is hoping to hit the ground running at his new club, already identifying the need to strengthen in a number of areas.

“There are squad positions that must be filled with high quality players,” Kurz said.

“At the moment we are in discussions with players from overseas and Australia as well, and we are looking forward to building a strong and talented team for Victory.”

Di Pietro pledged his full backing to Kurz in the transfer market, identifying the availability of another marquee slot and the potential to bring in another signing of Keisuke Honda-like calibre.

“We want to provide every resource we possibly can to support Marco,” he said.

“We have a marquee position available, so there’s a number of discussions underway at the moment.”

Kurz departed the Reds much to the anger and disappointment of the Reds fanbase, and his arrival in Melbourne will ensure that the Original Derby has some added spice for next season.

The Victory’s new boss remained coy on the prospect of facing his former side, saying his Adelaide days are in the past and the Reds are now merely another team his Victory side will want to overcome.

Nick Hughes
nick.hughesy6@gmail.com