Longest-serving A-League coach quits on eve of season

A-League club Macarthur FC are on the hunt for a head coach less than two months out from the new season after agreeing to part ways with Mile Sterjovski.

The Bulls announced on Tuesday that the former Socceroo, who won the 2023 Australia Cup, had agreed to a mutual termination of his contract.

Sterjovski was the longest-serving coach in the competition after being thrust into the role following Dwight Yorke's dramatic exit midway through the 2022/23 A-League Men (ALM) season.

During Sterjovski's time at the helm, the Bulls made deep runs in Asia but the lengthy travel took its toll on the domestic front with the club missing the last two finals series.

The 47-year-old's last game in charge was a penalty shootout defeat in the last 16 of the Australia Cup to New South Wales part-timers SD Raiders.

Macarthur open their seventh ALM campaign at home to Perth Glory on October 17.

"Having been with the club since the beginning, Mile has made a lasting contribution to the culture and identity of Macarthur Bulls FC," the club said in a statement.

"His commitment to developing young players and strengthening the pathway from the Academy to the A-League will continue to influence the club for years to come.

"Macarthur Bulls FC would like to thank Mile for his hard work, dedication and contribution throughout his time at the club and wish him all the best for the next chapter of his career."