23 May Western United confirm inaugural coach

Western United has confirmed the appointment of Mark Rudan as their inaugural manager.

Rudan joins the A-League newcomers on a three-year deal after quitting his post as Wellington Phoenix boss in April.

The 43-year-old guided the Phoenix to a sixth-placed finish and their first A-league finals berth since the 2014/15 season.

“It’s just an opportunity that couldn’t be passed up, to have a blank piece of paper to create what you want," Rudan told reporters.

"To be the inaugural coach is something that genuinely excites me.

"I understand what the western part of Melbourne is about having grown up in the western region of Sydney.

“I understand what the demographic is about. What the people are about, what they want and what they stand for."

Rudan will look to hit the ground running when Western United enter the A-League next season.

Western United is pleased to announce the signing of head coach Mark Rudan. #wufc #westernunitedfc #theunitedwest #ALeague #thewestisnowunited pic.twitter.com/ws7btKAgUF

— Western United FC (@wufcofficial) May 23, 2019