Carlton’s board recently convened for an extensive meeting to deliberate on the future of head coach Michael Voss amid a challenging season. The pressure has intensified on Voss, with the club struggling near the bottom of the competition ladder. This session marked the last gathering of the Blues’ board for the season, as reported by Nine’s Tom Morris.
The timing of this meeting has stirred discussions regarding Voss’s potential future with the club. Just two days prior, the Demons announced the departure of coach Simon Goodwin following a scheduled board meeting that set forth the club’s strategy for the 2026 season. This led to speculation that a similar fate could befall Voss, although Morris asserted that the meeting had been planned for a considerable time.
The significance of the meeting extended beyond Voss’s future, as it was also the final opportunity for officials to discuss key matters before Graham Wright assumes his role as the new CEO. Despite concerns, Morris suggested that it would likely surprise both players and officials if Voss were to be dismissed immediately following the board meeting.
Currently, Voss retains his position, but former West Coast Eagles star Will Schofield voiced his belief that Carlton’s board may have already made a determination regarding their coach. Schofield commented on 3AW’s Wide World of Sports that the discussions during such board meetings often revolve around the coach’s future rather than other club matters, implying an ominous sign for Voss.
He further elaborated that when boards convene about a coach’s situation, a decision has likely been made, suggesting that in most cases, the outcome is not favourable for the coach. With several highly regarded coaches currently available, Schofield posits that club boards are motivated to consider coaching changes now rather than later.
Renowned names like John Longmire, Adam Simpson, Ken Hinkley, and Nathan Buckley have been highlighted as potential replacements for Voss should the board decide to take that route. Schofield emphasised the increased pressure on clubs to act amid a unique pool of talent available this year, offering a stronger incentive for boards to make decisive changes.