Melbourne City FC has finalised Aurelio Vidmar’s Men’s coaching staff for the 2026/27 season, with Petr Kratky returning as Assistant Coach and Sander Krabbendam continuing as Goalkeeper Coach.
As confirmed previously, former Club captain and Championship winner Scott Jamieson will also continue as Assistant Coach.
Kratky returns to the Club following three successful seasons as Head Coach of Mumbai City in the Indian Super League.
Before taking charge of Mumbai in 2023, Kratky spent more than seven years working across Melbourne City’s Academy and first-team programs.
During that time, he played an important role in developing numerous Academy graduates who progressed to the first team, including several who went on to represent the Socceroos. He also contributed to multiple trophies across City’s Men’s and Youth programs.
At Mumbai, Kratky enjoyed immediate success, guiding the Club to ISL Cup glory in his first season before maintaining a strong winning record throughout his tenure.
Krabbendam has played a key role in the development of Patrick Beach, who progressed into a Championship winner, Socceroo, World Cup starter and now a Ligue 1 goalkeeper.
He continues to work closely with emerging goalkeepers James Nieuwenhuizen and Lachie Charles, who both made their first-team debuts last season and remain important members of City’s goalkeeping group.
The Club can also confirm Assistant Coach Paul Pezos has departed Melbourne City after two seasons, returning home to South Australia to be closer to family.
With the coaching staff now finalised, City enters the 2026/27 campaign with strong continuity across its football department ahead of an Australia Cup Round of 32 clash against Weston Bears FC on Sunday.
Melbourne City FC Director of Football Michael Petrillo said the finalised coaching group struck the right balance between continuity, experience and fresh perspective.
“We’re delighted to welcome Petr back to Melbourne. He understands our Club and our football exceptionally well and returns as an even more experienced coach following an impressive spell in charge of Mumbai City.
“Petr joins Aurelio, Scott and Sander to form an outstanding coaching team. They share a clear understanding of how we want to play and develop our players, while each brings different experiences and strengths that will continue to benefit both our squad and the wider football program.
“I’d also like to thank Paul Pezos for his contribution over the past two seasons. He has been a valued member of our coaching staff, and we wish him and his family the very best as he returns home to South Australia.”
