Could Ivan Cleary be the next Blues coach?

Following Michael Maguire’s departure from the Blues, speculations have begun as to who will replace him as NSW coach for the 2025 Origin series.

SEN Sportsday hosts Scott Sattler and Mat Rogers discussed options, with Sattler throwing up Panthers head coach, Ivan Cleary.

Following a historic fourth straight premiership, Sattler believes Cleary has a team set up well enough that he could coach Origin alongside his club duties with Penrith.

“He has got a system out there is place where he could go and do the Origin job,” Sattler said on SENQ.

Speculation surrounding Cleary as coach have existed since his appearance in the coaching box alongside then-coach Brad Fittler during the 2023 Origin series.

Cleary helped Fittler coach the Blues to a win in that game, clearly making in a mark in the minds of many, as they consider the next NSW coach.

“He was sitting in the origin box during the series. That means a lot," he added.

Given his son Nathan is likely to captain the NSW side, Sattler beleives combining the Clearys at the representative level could be a winning move for the Blues.

Mat Rogers, however, spoke strongly against this pick.

Rogers believes there is no chance Cleary would take time away from the Panthers.

“He is not risking a potential five-pete to go and coach NSW,” he said.

“If he blows this one, he is not getting to five (in a row) ever.”

Ivan Cleary remains a surprising option for NSW given his secure position with the Panthers, however his appearance in the Prigin box has certainly left the door open.