Reports emerged out of Melbourne that Victory chairman John Dovaston is in advanced discussions with former Macarthur FC head coach Ante Milicic about leaving his post as the manager of China's national women's team to head to AAMI Park for 2026/27.
Diles led the Victory to the 2024-25 A-League Grand Final, a 1-0 loss to crosstown rivals Melbourne City, before they were eliminated by eventual Grand Finalists Sydney FC in the elimination final of this season's competition.
As an assistant coach, he stepped up as an interim boss during the 2024/25 season following the sudden departure of his superior Patrick Kisnorbo, the man who would ultimately defeat him in his final game as Victory coach.
Diles departed with a win rate of 40% from exactly 50 A-League games in charge, whilst the club also suffered a shock and premature exit from the 2025/26 Australia Cup when they lost to NPL WA club Olympic Kingsway 4-3 in July 2025.
This is a developing story. More to come...
