"To good to pass up": Why Fagan chose Carlton

Three-time Brisbane premiership coach Chris Fagan is officially a Blue.

As first reported by SEN's Sam Edmund, Fagan is joining Carlton ahead of the 2027 season as their director of coaching to mentor Josh Fraser.

Having stepped away from the Lions' job in September after claiming yet another Grand Final, Fagan was hot property, being chased by Tasmania, Collingwood and ultimately Carlton in an overseeing role.

With the Blues ultimately winning the race, Fagan says he hopes he can help those in charge at Ikon Park get the most out of themselves in the next 12 months and beyond.

“While I loved my 10 years as a senior coach, this is a role I am passionate about and where I know I can have a real impact in this next phase of my football career,” Fagan said in a statement.

“Supporting people to get the absolute best out of themselves is what I love most about football, so the chance to now be able to do that on a full-time basis is incredibly exciting. I can’t wait to connect with each person in the football department, and in particular work closely with Josh to help every coach and player be the best Carlton person they can possibly be.”

While Fagan almost had his pick of a raft of clubs for his next step, he says Carlton was an easy choice.

“They shared a clear vision of evolving Carlton into a club that can contend but most importantly, they understand there is still significant work to do to get there,” Fagan said.

“To have the senior leadership of a football club share such clarity in their direction, combined with a role that gives me genuine purpose, makes joining Carlton an opportunity too good to pass up.”

The 64-year-old will report to GM of Football Chris Davies.

Fagan’s full-time role will include a match-day component that will be an extension of the support he provides the coaching group throughout the week.