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Glory unsure if Popovic will remain coach

3 minute read

Tony Popovic's stint as Perth's A-League coach appears over with rumours suggesting he is set to take the reins at Greek Super League club Xanthi FC.

Wanderers coach TONY POPOVIC.
Wanderers coach TONY POPOVIC. Picture: Chris Hyde/Getty Images

Former Socceroos defender Ivan Franjic has confirmed he's leaving Perth Glory but owner Tony Sage says he still hasn't heard any word on whether coach Tony Popovic is staying on board.

Rumours are rife that Popovic is set to leave the Glory to take up a deal with Greek Super League club Xanthi FC.

The Greek club is reportedly in the process of being bought by Bill Papas, who is president of NPL outfit Sydney Olympic.

Popovic still has one more season remaining on his Glory deal and they are keen for him to stay.

Sage has heard the whispers of Popovic leaving but he hasn't had any official word.

"He is contracted for next season and it's up to him to make a comment if he wishes to break that contract," Sage said in a statement.

"Whatever he decides, the club is concentrating on the upcoming ACL season and signing seven new players to fill our roster."

Franjic confirmed on Twitter that he was leaving Perth but said he is unsure where he will play next.

Popovic enjoyed a hugely successful stint at Western Sydney Wanderers from 2012-17.

Although he lost three grand finals during his five years at the Wanderers, he led the club to Asian Champions League glory in 2014.

Popovic left the Wanderers just one week out from the start of the 2017-18 A-League season to coach Turkish club Karabukspor.

His time in Turkey proved to be a disaster, shown the door after just two months.

Popovic then took the Glory job in time for the 2018-19 campaign and he led the club to the Premiers Plate in his first season in the west.

Glory lost the grand final to Sydney FC on penalties and they were bundled out in the semi-finals this season by the Sky Blues on Wednesday night.

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