As the 2025 AFL season approaches, several coaches are facing intense pressure to deliver results.
While some have seen recent success, others are at critical junctures in their careers.
Whether it's longstanding coaches like Luke Beveridge at the Western Bulldogsย or those still searching for consistency, such as Adelaide's Matthew Nicks and Fremantle's Justin Longmuir, these leaders will be under scrutiny from fans, club executives, and the wider AFL community.
With premiership aspirations, rebuilding challenges, and contract uncertainties, these eight coaches must guide their teams to successโor risk their future in the league.
5. Alastair Clarkson (North Melbourne)
It's finally time for Clarko and his Kangas to rebound from years of bottom-dwelling and another dismal 3-20 campaign in 2024, albeit with some exciting youthful exuberance.
Despite club president Sonja Hood's support for Clarkson and football boss Todd Viney, both will face scrutiny if the Kangaroos fail to show tangible progress next season.
Clarkson's tenure at North Melbourne has been challenging, with the team consistently finishing near the bottom of the ladder. However, he remains optimistic, drawing parallels between the Kangaroos' rebuild and the successful trajectory of his former club, Hawthorn.
One major hurdle for Clarkson is addressing the mental toll of losing seasons on both players and supporters.
While the Kangaroos' performances have been lacklustre, there have been bright spots, particularly among young talents like Harry Sheezel, who won the AFL Coaches' Association Best Young Player award, as well as Tristan Xerri, George Wardlaw, Colby McKercher, Zane Duursma, Charlie Comben and others. This promising young core offers a foundation for Clarkson's vision.
Clarkson also recognises the need to complement this youth with seasoned players. During the 2024 trade period, North Melbourne recruited veterans like Luke Parker, Jack Darling, and Caleb Daniel to provide leadership and stability.
Clarkson compares this approach to his successful time at Hawthorn, where integrating experienced players with younger talent proved effective.
While still in a rebuild, the blend of experienced recruits and the development of young stars will be key to climbing the ladder in 2025.
But with mounting pressure to deliver progress, Clarkson is acutely aware that the club's performance will be closely monitored.
