In a monumental announcement that has sent shockwaves through the Australian Football League (AFL) community, Leigh Matthews, former head coach of the Collingwood Football Club and one of the game’s most iconic figures, has officially announced his return to the Magpies.
The 73-year-old Hall of Famer, who has most recently been working as a respected commentator and pundit for AFL broadcasts, made the stunning revelation during a special live segment aired Sunday afternoon.
“It feels like the right time,” Matthews said. “Collingwood is in my blood. This isn’t just a job — it’s a homecoming.”
Role Confirmed as Coaching Director
While speculation immediately swirled around whether Matthews would return to the sidelines, the club has since clarified that he will take on the role of Coaching Director, working closely with Collingwood’s current senior coach, Craig McRae, and the broader football department.
According to Collingwood CEO Craig Kelly, Matthews’ role will focus on leadership development, strategic planning, and mentoring both coaches and players across all levels of the club.
“Leigh brings unmatched experience, a deep connection to Collingwood, and a legacy of success. His insights will be invaluable as we continue to build a sustained premiership culture,” Kelly said.
A Legend’s Legacy Returns
Leigh Matthews is widely regarded as one of the greatest figures in AFL history — both as a player and a coach. After a legendary playing career with Hawthorn, he transitioned into coaching, taking the helm at Collingwood from 1986 to 1995. Under his leadership, the Magpies famously broke a 32-year premiership drought in 1990.
He later went on to coach the Brisbane Lions to three consecutive premierships from 2001 to 2003, further cementing his status as an all-time great.
Mixed Reactions from the AFL World
Matthews’ announcement has already sparked widespread discussion across the AFL world. While many fans and former players have welcomed the move as a masterstroke, others are questioning how his traditional coaching philosophies will mesh with the modern, analytics-driven approach of today’s game.
Former Collingwood captain Nathan Buckley described the appointment as “inspired,” adding that “Leigh’s presence alone commands respect — and that’s something any club would value.”
What It Means for Collingwood
The Magpies, reigning premiers in 2023 and currently in a tight battle for a top-four finish in 2025, are positioning themselves for long-term success. The addition of Matthews signals the club’s intent to remain not just competitive, but dominant, in the years to come.
His mentoring of Craig McRae — who has already proven himself a capable leader — could evolve into one of the most powerful strategic partnerships in the league.
Final Thoughts
Leigh Matthews’ return to Collingwood is more than a feel-good story — it’s a potentially transformative moment for the club. As the AFL heads into the final stretch of the 2025 season, all eyes will now be on the Magpies, with their legendary figure once again perched behind the black-and-white curtain.
One thing’s for sure: Leigh Matthews is back where he belongs.
