Matt King is on the verge of landing one of the biggest jobs in rugby league after emerging as the leading candidate to replace Laurie Daley as New South Wales State of Origin coach.
Just hours after Daley confirmed he was stepping down following the Blues’ 2026 series victory, King’s name has surged to the top of the shortlist, with the long-time assistant coach now expected to take charge of NSW for the 2027 Origin series.
Daley Throws His Support Behind King
Daley didn’t hesitate when asked who should succeed him, publicly endorsing King during his announcement on Sky Sports Radio.
NRL MATCH CENTRE: View stats, betting insights, tips & more here
MORE NRL NEWS: View Our NRL News Here
“Matty King is a first-grade coach now, he’s ready to go,” Daley said.
“I don’t know what the NSWRL are going to do or who they’re going to appoint, but I’d like to see a guy like Matt King take over the role.
“He’s been there, he’s been a servant and he’s had great input over the last three years.”
King has served on the Blues coaching staff under both Michael Maguire and Laurie Daley, while also building an outstanding résumé as an assistant at the Sydney Roosters under Trent Robinson.
Years of Apprenticeship Could Finally Pay Off
The 45-year-old has long been regarded as one of the NRL’s brightest coaching prospects.
A former NSW Origin representative, King has spent almost a decade as one of the Roosters’ senior assistants after previously beginning his coaching career at South Sydney. He narrowly missed out on the Blues role when Daley returned for a second stint but now appears set to get his opportunity.
Speaking earlier this year, King admitted he had changed his view on becoming a head coach.
“I am daydreaming about it more and more.”
“I turn 45 this year, I have done a big old apprenticeship.”
“The love and joy the game gives me, I love it mate. To think that at some stage I might be the head coach of a footy program at a club that means something to me…”
Other Candidates Fall Away
While several names have been linked to the position, King’s path has become significantly clearer.
Penrith coach Ivan Cleary has already ruled himself out of taking the role in 2027 due to his commitment to the Panthers, although he has previously indicated representative coaching could be an option after his club tenure ends.
Former Blues captain Boyd Cordner was also considered a strong contender after impressing as an assistant and coaching the Roosters’ junior pathways, while Brett White had been mentioned as another experienced option.
Decision Expected Soon
NSWRL chief executive Dave Trodden confirmed the organisation is close to finalising the appointment.
“We’re just working through some final details at the moment… hopefully we will be able to nail that in the coming days. Watch this space, we’re pretty close,” Trodden said.
Subsequent reports on Monday indicated King had secured the role on a two-year deal, with an official announcement expected imminently.
If confirmed, King will inherit a Blues side that reclaimed the State of Origin shield in 2026 and will be tasked with defending the title against Billy Slater’s Queensland in next year’s series.
CHECK OUT OUR NRL MATCH CENTRE: View stats, odds, betting insights, team lists, tips here
MORE NRL NEWS: View Our NRL News Here
