Laurie Daley’s rumoured shift into a role at Manly has sparked fresh debate.
The NSW Blues coach is reportedly set to meet with Anthony Seibold this week.
The move could see Daley take on a unique position as a sounding board at the Sea Eagles.
But critics argue the appointment may raise more questions than it answers.
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‘What sort of role?’
Braith Anasta admitted he was puzzled by the concept, pointing out the uncertainty around Seibold’s future.
“What could it possibly be? What sort of role?” Anasta asked, before describing the move as “a bit of a strange role.”
“If Anthony Seibold is looking to step away from head coaching to be head of football, why does the possible next head of football need a sounding board?”
Anasta conceded Daley would bring invaluable experience but questioned whether it addressed the club’s real issues.
PR stunt or progress?
Gorden Tallis warned that Manly risked the move being perceived as a publicity exercise.
“You just hope it’s not a PR stunt from Manly to try to get one of the most popular guys in our game,” Tallis said.
Paul Crawley also argued the Sea Eagles’ problems may run deeper than what Daley could realistically solve.
“He’s got great experience but is that going to fix the machinations inside that club?” Crawley said.
“The questions that have come out of that club this year more relate to the dynamics between the coaching staff and the players.”
Origin focus
Beyond Manly’s internal situation, the potential appointment has also raised concerns about Daley balancing his commitments.
Daley returned as NSW coach this year but oversaw another series defeat, meaning pressure is already mounting for 2026.
“Laurie’s got a fair job ahead of him with NSW,” Anasta said.
“He’s going to have a lot of heat on him to deliver after this year, so he doesn’t want any distractions.”
Conflict of interest flagged
There are also questions around whether Daley working with Manly would pose a conflict of interest when selecting State of Origin squads.
Dean Ritchie suggested accusations could arise if Sea Eagles players were picked for the Blues, though Crawley dismissed those concerns unless Daley was an NRL head coach at the same time.