Sydney FC has parted ways with coach Ufuk Talay, with A-League title-winning mentor Patrick Kisnorbo to replace him with immediate effect.
Despite the Sydneysiders still being on track to play finals football, pressure had been mounting on Talay after it was revealed last week by News Corp Australia that he was set to be offered a multi-year coaching deal by the Sky Blues’ arch-rivals Western Sydney Wanderers.
Talay’s final game in charge of the Sky Blues was Sunday’s 2-1 home loss to A-League leaders Newcastle Jets.
Talay, who turns 50 on Thursday, was appointed by Sydney in November 2023 as the replacement for the sacked Steve Corica.
In 91 games in charge of the Sky Blues in all competitions, including last season’s AFC Champions League Two, Talay guided Sydney to 43 wins.
Talay said it had been a “privilege to work with the players, staff and wider organisation”.
“I am grateful for the support from the members and fans. I wish the club every success for the future,” the departing coach said.
Sydney FC chairman Dr Jan Hendrik Voss said: “I would like to thank Ufuk for his hard work, dedication, professionalism, passion and commitment that he brought to Sydney FC.”
Kisnorbo, who led Melbourne City to the A-Leage title in 2021 and has also coached Melbourne Victory, has been appointed for the rest of the 2025-26 campaign.
His most recent coaching job was at Japanese top-flight club Yokohoma F. Marinos where after being an assistant he was elevated to the top job in April last year.
However, he only lasted 55 days in charge before being sacked.
“Patrick is a highly regarded coach having won the A-League championship and back-to-back premiership titles,” Voss said.
“Recently, the club has been undergoing a strategic review process to identify a head coach for season 2026-27 to meet our ambitions of playing AFC Champions League Elite, winning the premiership, championship and the Australia Cup.
“We have made the decision to bring in Patrick as the head coach for the remainder of this season whilst we continue that process.”
Kisnorbo said he was “delighted” to take charge of the Sky Blues.
“This is a club with a proud history and high expectations, and there is a real opportunity to achieve something special this season,” the former Socceroos defender said.
“Our focus is to build consistency in our performances and to have the squad mentally and physically prepared for every game.”
