AFL icon Mick Malthouse has emphatically stated that Fremantle coach Justin Longmuir should not even contemplate the vacant coaching position at Carlton. In a passionate declaration, the three-time premiership coach argued that Longmuir's commitment to the Dockers and his unfinished project at the club make any move unthinkable.
Malthouse's Strong Warning
Speaking on his radio show, Malthouse said, "There is no world in which Justin Longmuir should consider the Carlton job. He has a responsibility to Fremantle and to the players who have bought into his system." The veteran coach highlighted Longmuir's role in rebuilding the Dockers' culture and game plan, noting that leaving now would be a betrayal of the trust placed in him.
Longmuir's Achievements at Fremantle
Longmuir, who took over as Fremantle senior coach in 2020, has overseen a significant transformation. The Dockers have developed a young, dynamic list and have become a formidable force in the AFL, culminating in a finals appearance in 2022. Malthouse emphasised that Longmuir is on the cusp of something special, and walking away would derail that progress.
"He has built a foundation. The players respond to him. The club is heading in the right direction. Why would he throw that away for a job at Carlton, which is a basket case in many respects?" Malthouse questioned.
Carlton's Coaching Turmoil
The Blues are searching for a new senior coach after parting ways with David Teague at the end of the 2021 season. Since then, the club has struggled to find stability, with interim coaches and a list that has underperformed despite high-profile recruits. Malthouse, who coached Carlton from 2013 to 2015, knows the pressures of the role and believes Longmuir would be walking into a minefield.
"Carlton needs a complete overhaul, not just a coach. They need to fix their culture, their list management, and their board. That is a multi-year project that will chew up and spit out any coach," he warned.
Loyalty and Legacy
Malthouse also touched on the importance of loyalty in the modern AFL landscape. He pointed out that Longmuir was given an opportunity by Fremantle and has repaid that faith with strong performances. "In today's game, loyalty is rare. But Justin has shown he is a loyal person. He should honour his contract and see through what he started at Fremantle."
The veteran coach concluded by urging Longmuir to ignore any external noise and focus on the task at hand: leading Fremantle to their first AFL premiership. "He has a chance to be a legend at Fremantle. That means more than being just another coach at Carlton," Malthouse said.
Longmuir's Future
While Longmuir has not publicly commented on the speculation, his actions suggest he is committed to the Dockers. He recently signed a contract extension that ties him to the club until the end of 2025. However, with Carlton's desperation and the allure of a big club, the rumor mill continues to churn.
Malthouse's strong stance adds to the growing chorus of voices urging Longmuir to stay put. As the AFL world watches, the decision ultimately rests with Longmuir, but if Malthouse has his way, the answer is a resounding no.
