Michael Cheika expresses interest in leading Lebanon at 2025 World Cup

Drew Darbyshire 04 Nov 2022 10:46 PM

Michael Cheika has put his hand up to coach Lebanon at the 2025 World Cup after bursting with pride at representing the Cedars.

The 55-year-old guided Lebanon to the quarter-finals in the World Cup, where they fell short to reigning champions Australia.

Cheika, who was born and raised in Australia to Lebanese parents, says he thoroughly enjoyed his time coaching the Lebanon rugby league side and would put his hand up at doing it at the 2025 World Cup in France.

“If they’ll have me yeah I suppose,” Cheika said when asked if he would be up for coaching the Cedars at the tournament in 2025. “A lot can happen between now and then and nothing is set in stone.

“It’s a great experience to be a part of. It’s been a great experience for myself personally so I wouldn’t hesitate to put my hand up if they wanted me to come back again.”

Michael Cheika: Lebanon camp one of the best things I’ve done

The Cedars enjoyed wins over Jamaica and Ireland in the group stages, whilst just falling short to New Zealand, the number one ranked team in the world.

“I think the best things are still to come. 2025 with this team,” Cheika added.

“If I have the honour of being involved with them again, I’d like to think it will be another highlight.

“I said to the boys inside, it’s been one of the best things I’ve done in footy ever. It’s been such a good experience for my own personal growth and development. Also reconnecting with the homeland of my parents and to live that experience and share what it’s like for the boys in Australia to grow up as an ethnic kid playing sport – it’s been unreal.”

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Michael Cheika: Lebanon camp one of the best things I’ve done

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