'I don't think it's a secret': Brad Arthur confirms interest in coaching Perth expansion team
Brad Arthur has confirmed his interest in coaching the Bears when they return to the NRL, but denied a property purchase in Perth has anything to do with it.
According to The Sydney Morning Herald, the former Eels boss is the front-runner to head up the league's newest expansion side when they enter the competition.
News broke on Thursday morning that the ARL Commission had green-lit the potential inclusion of a Western Australia team, which would have links to the North Sydney Bears.
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Currently plying his trade with Super League club Leeds Rhinos, the 50-year-old said he would be keen to take over the WA team from 2027 onwards.
Leeds coach Brad Arthur Getty
"I don't think it's a secret that I would love to coach in the NRL again," Arthur said.
"I still feel like I have a lot to offer and have learnt a lot over the past 12 months that will make me a better coach than the one that left Parramatta. I also want to be closer to my two boys. It's hard being away from them and missing their careers.
"Would I like the Perth job? Of course. I feel I have proven that I can build a club from the ground up, because that's what we had to do when I started at Parramatta.
"This is all premature ... but if you're asking me if I would be interested, then yes."
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Arthur was also quizzed about whether the purchase of a property in the Perth suburb of Coogee in late-2024 had anything to do with the expansion franchise.
"I've got a property on the Gold Coast as well, have you got me coaching the Titans, too?" he said.
"Michelle is from Perth, she still has family in Perth. We decided to buy an investment property there after selling another property that we owned."
A young North Sydney Bears fan. SMH
Arthur was in charge at Parramatta for more than 250 games, taking the side to a grand final three years ago and numerous top-eight finishes.
Warrington coach Sam Burgess has also been considered, according to the Herald.
A confirmation from the NRL regarding the 18th club's entry is expected soon.
