Collingwood assistant coach Justin Leppitsch hasn't dismissed the possibility of leaving the Pies in pursuit of a senior coaching role at the end of 2024, sharing his thoughts on the Sunday Footy Show ahead of the club's clash with North Melbourne.
When asked by Damian Barrett if he'd consider the opportunity, Leppitsch answered honestly; "potentially."
"I always think those things, you can't plan for. You never know," he added.
"I see a long future here at Collingwood and there's nothing really to suggest otherwise at this point in time. But I don't think you'd ever say never."
Justin Leppitsch on whether he'd ever consider an offer to return to senior coaching. #9AFLSFS | NIne & 9Now ๐ฅ๏ธ pic.twitter.com/gjCIGTZNAy
— Footy on Nine (@FootyonNine) June 16, 2024
While a number of clubs are feeling the pressure of a fading season or unmet expectations, there remain no names firmly on the chopping block, with some notable candidates still contracted.
Adelaide's struggles under Matthew Nicks are somewhat blanketed by his two-year extension signed at the start of the year.
Adam Simpson and the West Coast Eagles have newfound hope with the addition of their generational gem at pick one in last year's draft.
Luke Beveridge is always a question, at least externally, but he too remains contracted until 2025.
Justin Longmuir recently extended his tenure with the Dockers, who seem to be on the rise but not without the routine scrutiny following their poor performances.
Melbourne have not signalled any intent to shake things up despite the way their season is shaping. Some have voiced ongoing concern with the club culture, dating back to the damning media discussion last off-season.
Simon Goodwin is contracted until 2026, but the jury is out on how Melbourne will react if they fall out of the finals race in Christian Petracca's absence.
"It's not just what you want, it's what the other club's want in the competition," Leppitsch added.
"There may be a situation (where) there is no jobs next year"
"I don't like to think of that as a focus point, I can only ever really do what (I'm) doing at the current club."
While it would be difficult leaving the environment he has helped established at Collingwood alongside Craig McRae, which looks bound for sustained success, it seems there will come a time where a tough decision must be made.
"I see a long future here at Collingwood, and there's nothing really to suggest otherwise at this point"
"But I don't think you can ever say never in this game."
Leppitsch would be yet another Leigh Matthews protege from the Lions' dynasty of the early 00's, joining good mates Chris and Brad Scott, Michael Voss as well as his leading man at the Magpies, Craig McRae.
