Second year title 'more than we could have asked for': Auckland manager Corica

The former Sydney FC coach guided his team to a 1-0 victory over his previous employers at a packed Mount Smart Stadium, making Auckland FC the first New Zealand side to clinch the grand final in the tournament's two-decade history.

"Having achieved everything with Sydney FC, I had no need to prove myself as a coach," stated Corica, who had previously steered his old club to A-League triumphs in 2019 and 2020.

"My goal was to bring happiness to the people of Auckland, who have been incredibly supportive of me and our players over these initial two years.

"Securing a premiership in our debut season and a grand final victory in the second year surpasses all our expectations.

"We've assembled the right team. It's all about belief, and the culture here has been phenomenal. The squad is united.

"Our first two years have been extraordinary, and we aim to replicate this success next season."

Corica was appointed as Auckland's first coach towards the end of 2023, shortly after concluding his lengthy tenure with Sydney, where he served both as a player and a coach.

As a midfielder, he claimed A-League championships in 2006 and 2010 before transitioning into coaching. He took over from Graham Arnold in 2018, leading the team to consecutive titles in his first two seasons at the helm.

"Facing Sydney in the final was surreal, given my history with them and the trophies I helped them win," he reflected.

"But winning is what drives me. I wanted the lads to deliver a performance tonight.

"It wasn't the most aesthetically pleasing game, but they displayed the determination we demand. The fans were incredible. Beating Sydney was the icing on the cake."