Patrick Kisnorbo has been announced as Melbourne City’s new head coach following the departure of Erick Mombaerts.
Mombaerts will return to Europe for family reasons after guiding City to second place – their highest ever league finish – and a maiden Grand Final appearance that ended in a 1-0 extra-time loss to Sydney.
Kisnorbo worked under the Frenchman as an assistant coach last season and captained the club during his three-year stint as a player.
“I’m grateful to the City Football Group for their support in my development since I began my coaching journey,” Kisnorbo said.
“Erick has taught me so much and I am extremely grateful for the way he has helped both myself and the club to develop over the last 14 months.
"Melbourne City is in my blood now and I am here to work hard, to give my all and to ensure this team continues to be a team that everyone can be proud to be a part of.”
Mombaerts, 65, reflected on his successful 14-month tenure as City boss.
“I am sad to leave Melbourne City in these circumstances, but I am so very proud of the players and what the club has achieved during my time here,” Mombaerts said.
“We have reached some incredible milestones, we have implemented an exciting way to play, and we have become a true family, playing together every week for our fans, and I have no doubt that Patrick will continue this work. The team is in safe hands under his leadership.
“I have had a fantastic experience in Melbourne and I will always remember my time here with much fondness, but I have been away from my family for a long time and now I must return to care for them in France.”