Taking over from Brad Arthur in an interim capacity, Trent Barrett is optimistic about potentially securing the role permanently next season, despite previous early exits from coaching positions at the Manly Sea Eagles and Canterbury Bulldogs.
Barrett has expressed his desire to become the full-time coach of the Eels and has received an endorsement from former Sydney Swans premiership coach Paul Roos, who has recently been advising him. Roos, who previously worked closely with Brad Arthur, has been impressed with Barrett’s analytical approach and calm demeanor.
“Without revealing too much about our discussions, I was very impressed with Trent’s pre-game analysis,” Roos told The Herald. “The way he described how the Bulldogs were going to play was exactly how it played out. He was very analytical, broke the game down well, and remained very calm. That’s what impressed me the most. I had a great relationship with BA [Arthur], but Trent has a real presence about him, and you can see the respect he has from the players.”
While Barrett has gained endorsements from Roos and former New Zealand All Blacks coach Steve Hansen, current Parramatta Eels forward J’maine Hopgood has voiced support for Josh Hannay. After Queensland’s victory in Game 1 of the 2024 State of Origin series, Hopgood expressed confidence in Hannay’s abilities to handle an NRL head coaching position.
“Of course, I’m going to say that,” Hopgood told AAP. “I’m not sure which direction the Eels are heading in. If Josh is one of the options, then yeah, he’s doing a good job. But that’s above my pay grade.”
“He’s easygoing and easy to talk to, which is a positive,” Hopgood added. “But he’s also very knowledgeable about footy. He’s spent quite a bit of time as an assistant coach in various places.”
Barrett and Hannay are reportedly on the shortlist for the Eels head coaching position, alongside Jason Ryles, Michael Cheika, and Brian McDermott.
