Melbourne Victory has decided to part ways with coach Arthur Diles after a disappointing early exit from the finals series this season. Diles, who took over as head coach in December 2024, had previously led the team to the grand final last season. However, a fourth-place finish in the league and an early finals exit have led to his dismissal. The club’s director of football, John Didulica, has reportedly been in discussions with Ante Milicic, the former coach of Macarthur FC and China’s national women’s team, as a potential replacement for Diles. Diles expressed shock at the decision, especially after being involved in player retention and recruitment discussions earlier that day. His tenure at Melbourne Victory included a record of 20 wins, 17 losses, and 13 draws over 50 A-League games. Diles had also worked to bring Spanish star Juan Mata to the club for the upcoming season. Despite the club's decision, Melbourne Victory has declined to comment further on Diles' departure.