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

The ex-Sydney FC coach led his team to a 1-0 victory over his former club at a packed Mount Smart Stadium, making Auckland FC the first New Zealand side to claim the grand final in the tournament's two-decade existence.

"Having achieved all there was at Sydney FC, I had no point to prove as a manager," stated Conica, who previously guided his old team to A-League glory in 2019 and 2020.

"My aim was to bring happiness to the Auckland fans, who have shown incredible support to me and the squad over these initial two seasons.

"Winning the premiership in our debut season and securing the grand final in year two surpasses our wildest expectations.

"We've assembled the perfect group. Belief is key, and the team spirit has been phenomenal. The lads are united.

"The first two years have been remarkable, and we're determined to replicate this success next season."

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

As a midfielder, he lifted the A-League trophy twice, in 2006 and 2010, before transitioning into coaching. Taking over from Graham Arnold in 2018, he steered the team to consecutive championships in his first two seasons at the helm.

"Facing Sydney in the final was surreal, given my history with them and the silverware we won together," he remarked.

"Yet, victory is everything. I urged the players to deliver a performance tonight.

"It wasn't the most aesthetically pleasing match, but they displayed the fighting spirit we demand. The supporters were outstanding. Beating Sydney was the cherry on top."