Sydney FC Appoints James Slaveski as Women’s Head Coach on Two-Year Deal

Sydney FC has confirmed the appointment of James Slaveski as the permanent head coach of its Ninja A-League Women’s team.

Slaveski, who has signed a two-year contract, transitions into the full-time role after serving as the interim boss for the final seven matches of the 2025-26 season following the departure of club legend Ante Juric in February.

Slaveski previously served as the club’s Academy technical lead and NPL assistant coach, and has experience working under Joe Montemurro with the Matildas.

In his permanent capacity, Slaveski will also oversee the Female Development Squad, ensuring a direct technical link between the youth system and the first team.

Commenting on his apppointment, former technical lead, Slaveski, said: “I’m extremely honoured to be given this opportunity to lead Sydney FC’s A-League Women’s team for the next two seasons.”

“Building strong connections from the Female Development Squad to the first team is critical to sustained success, and I’m excited to play a role in that,” Slaveski said.

Sydney FC chairman, Dr. Jan Hendrik Voss, noted that Slaveski successfully implemented an effective style of play during a “challenging time,” stabilising the squad and securing buy-in from the players.

The club expects this attack-minded approach to lead a resurgence in the 2026-27 season.

Performance and Strategic Direction

While the Sky Blues ultimately finished the 2025-26 season in 11th place with 19 points—missing the finals for a rare occasion—the board was encouraged by the team’s tactical evolution under Slaveski. Significant results during his interim tenure included:

• 4–0 victory over semi-finalists Brisbane Roar.
• 2–1 win over Melbourne Victory in the “Big Blue.”

Squad Transition and 2026-27 Outlook

Slaveski begins his permanent tenure as the club manages a period of roster transition. Sydney FC has already confirmed several departures, including Hana Lowry (Vålerenga), Tori Tumeth (Vancouver Rise), and the retirement of Jodi Ülkekul.

However, the squad is expected to be bolstered by the return of Indi dos Santos and captain Nat Tobin from injury.

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