The former Wigan Warriors star becomes Parramatta Eels interim coach

Former Wigan Warriors star Trent Barrett has become Parramatta Eels interim coach after the NRL club parted ways with Brad Arthur.

Barrett, who became a fan favorite at Wigan during his two seasons in Super League between 2007 and 2008, was assistant to Arthur and will now take charge of the Eels in an interim role for the rest of the season.

Following the 48-16 drubbing of the Eels by the Melbourne Storm in the Magic Round, the Eels released a club statement to confirm they had relieved Arthur of his head coaching duties, with Parramatta sitting 14th in the NRL rankings, winning just three of 10. games since 2024.

Arthur became head coach of the Eels in 2014, succeeding Ricky Stuart. The 49-year-old has won 135 of his 258 games in charge for a winning percentage of 52.

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Parramatta Eels sack Brad Arthur as Trent Barrett takes over in interim charge

With Barrett in charge for the remainder of the season, the Parramatta club says it will “provide a further update” as it moves forward to appoint a head coach for 2025 and beyond.

The Eels’ statement read: “The Parramatta Eels have informed Brad Arthur this afternoon that his tenure as head coach has ended, effective immediately.

“The board and CEO felt that the progress of our NRL team had stagnated. Our aim is to win premierships and it is time for the club to go in a new direction.

“We want to thank Brad who has worked tirelessly for the club for 10 years. During his time as head coach, the club played in five finals series, including a grand final in 2022.

“We wish Brad and his family all the best for the future and are very grateful for his service to the club.

“Trent Barrett will take control of the team as interim head coach for the remainder of the 2024 season.

“We will provide a further update as we move forward to name a head coach for the 2025 season and beyond.”

Barrett enjoyed a distinguished playing career, making over 300 career appearances for the Illawarra Steelers, St George Illawarra Dragons, Wigan and Cronulla Sharks.

The 46-year-old has won 15 international caps for Australia and played 11 games for New South Wales in the State of Origin arena.

Barrett has already had a taste of head coaching in the NRL, having taken charge of the Manly Sea Eagles (2016-2018) and the Canterbury Bulldogs (2021-22).

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