Ange Postecoglou’s recent statements about Australian soccer and the Matildas’ success are not just bleak predictions; they are a brilliant call to action.

In his unique way, he has ingeniously spotlighted the challenges and opportunities that lie before us, and it is time to recognise his genius in driving much-needed change.

I cannot help but marvel at Postecoglou’s ability to spark crucial conversations about the future of football in Australia. His accomplishments as a coach are undeniable, and it is precisely his wisdom and experience that make his recent statements all the more impactful.

What strikes me most is not the negativity of his observations, but rather the strategic genius behind them.

Postecoglou is a master of the game, and he is employing his platform and insights to create awareness and instigate transformation in the Australian game.

His astute assessment of the post-Matildas World Cup scenario, where he predicts no significant increase in resources allocated to the sport, is not a mere lament but a strategic move. By painting this challenging reality, he has highlighted issues that need urgent attention.

The Tottenham manager’s observations compel us to ponder: do Australians truly lack the will to invest in soccer on a national scale – or are we inherently disinterested in making a mark on the world stage through football?

His perspective challenges us to reevaluate our collective dedication to the sport and prompts us to think about the steps needed to make a significant impact globally.

The genius of Postecoglou’s statements is most evident when we consider his personal experience as the Socceroos’ head coach.

He is not just expressing his frustrations; he is expertly leveraging his own journey as a case study of the challenges within Australia. By sharing his own roadblocks, he is drawing attention to the obstacles that continue to thwart the sport’s growth.

While some progress has been made, it is Postecoglou’s acute sense of the challenges that motivate us to recognise that change is long overdue. His reluctance to consider a return to coaching in Australia is not a sign of resignation but a demonstration of his strategic thinking.

He is deliberately refusing to take on any future role of becoming the national team manager again until the necessary changes are implemented.

The genius becomes even more apparent when we acknowledge the profound impact of the Matildas’ historic run in the Women’s World Cup.

Despite their awe-inspiring journey, Postecoglou said he does not believe it will leave a lasting legacy. However, I think the comments are his way of signalling that there is an urgent need to ensure their achievements catalyse change and growth in women’s football.

As a testament to Postecoglou’s influence, the Matildas game in Perth was sold out. There were also record crowds in the opening standalone weekend of the A-League Women’s competition.

This remarkable response from the public may well be proof that his stance is gaining traction and bolstering the movement for positive change in Australian soccer.

So what is holding us back? Postecoglou’s genius lies in his ability to pinpoint the dominant presence of other sporting codes like AFL, NRL, and rugby, which have enjoyed generational support.

He is astutely showing us that these entrenched sports are part of the challenge that soccer faces.

While other nations like Japan have embraced soccer despite similar cultural and sporting challenges, Australia has not followed the same path. His strategic thinking urges us to explore new avenues for growth, even when faced with these formidable obstacles.

Those insights, born out of unparalleled experience and wisdom, have thrust us into a critical conversation about the sport’s future.

Let us not merely accept Postecoglou’s words as mere commentary; let us recognise the genius in his approach to drive change. Australian soccer holds immense potential, and it’s time for us to utilise his insights to create a brighter future for the sport we love.