Brad’s contract bonanza
‘King Arthur’ targets Parramatta dynasty
BRAD Arthur will become the longest-serving coach in Parramatta’s history as part of a multimillion-dollar plan for the Eels mentor to lead a dynasty in western Sydney.
Ahead of the biggest game of his career in Sunday’s grand final against Penrith, News Corp can reveal Eels bosses want Arthur to emulate the likes of NRL super coaches Craig Bellamy (Storm) and Trent Robinson (Roosters) by overseeing a decade-plus reign at Parramatta.
Addressing his future, Arthur outlined his desire for another term at Parramatta – scuppering speculation the 48year-old is being secretly shopped to rival NRL clubs.
Arthur is already contracted until the end of 2024 and will equal Brian Smith (1997-2006) with his 10th consecutive season in charge of the Eels next year.
And if the Eels beat the Panthers at Accor Stadium, “King” Arthur’s reign at Parramatta is set to be extended. Parramatta CEO Jim Sarantinos confirmed the Eels want Arthur at the helm for years to come as he looks to break the club’s 36-year premiership drought.
“Brad is contracted until 2024 and hopefully we achieve the ultimate success in that period,” he said. “If we do, there’d be no reason why Brad wouldn’t continue on.
“The common thing with those (top coaches) is they are winning premierships on a regular basis. If we are winning premierships regularly then why would you change your coach?
“We haven’t won yet, but we are one game away and hopefully we can continue to be consistent and among the top teams in years to come.”
Arthur coaches his 230th game in the Penrith decider and is on track to become Parramatta‘s most-capped mentor, surpassing Smith, who masterminded the Eels in 243 games, including their 2001 grand final loss to Newcastle.
While he has enjoyed consistent success in recent seasons, leading the Eels to five finals appearances in the past six years, Arthur is yet to deliver Parramatta an NRL title.
Ever the pragmatist, Arthur concedes he has an expiry date at the Eels, but insists he still has more to offer the club.
“I would like to stay on but I’m also a realist,” he said. “I get it. At some stage the club will get sick of me and the players might get sick of me.
“I don’t want to outstay my welcome here. I just want to be valued here and be doing my job.”