Michael Maguire appointed Broncos coach in Blues Origin blow

New South Wales coach Michael Maguire will coach NRL powerhouse Brisbane for the next three seasons.

Maguire, 50, replaces club legend Kevin Walters who was ruthlessly sacked by the Broncos just a year after reaching the grand final.

After guiding the Blues to their first State of Origin win since 2021, Maguire had been touted for a potential return to an NRL club, having previously coached Wests Tigers (2018-2022) and South Sydney (2012-2017).

He is also the current coach of the New Zealand national team.

Maguire will assume the role immediately following his release from the final year of his contract as Blues coach, a decision made official on Monday.

The Rabbitohs premiership-winning coach steps into the Broncos role just days after Walters was moved aside following an internal review, with just one finals performance in four years telling.

Maguire will address the media on Tuesday, and in an official statement, he acknowledged the weight of his new position.

“The Broncos are one of rugby league’s great clubs and it will be an honour to step into the role of head coach,” Maguire said.

“The Broncos organisation has a high expectation on everything it does. It’s built a great history and shown the strength of what a club can be and what it can mean to fans.

“Playing my part in the great vision of what the Broncos stand for is the exciting part for me.”