The Western Sydney Wanderers 2026 Member & Fan Forum at Club Marconi provided an open and at times candid evening of discussion between the Club’s leadership and its Members, as key figures addressed performance, structure, and the long-term direction of the organisation.
Hosted by Mark Bosnich, the forum began with introductions from RBB Members Fadi and Gafa, before moving into a structured conversation with Chairman Paul Lederer and CEO Scott Hudson covering key areas across the football program.
Honest reflections on the season
CEO Scott Hudson set the tone early, acknowledging the challenges of the season and the Club’s underperformance.
He noted the importance of transparency with Members, stating that football results cannot be hidden from and describing the campaign as a challenging and disappointing season, while welcoming open discussion and feedback from supporters.
Chairman Paul Lederer also addressed Members directly, taking accountability for the season and reinforcing his commitment to the Club, stating he has “two options – to give up or fight,” confirming he intends to continue fighting for the Wanderers.
Lederer also strongly denied claims regarding involvement in squad selection and acknowledged the team’s underperformance across the campaign.
Football operations, coaching and structure
Discussion then turned to football operations, including the appointment of the current Head Coach. Lederer outlined the Board’s responsibility in appointing the right people, noting the process involved reviewing 12 candidates, with Ufuk Talay identified as the best and preferred option.
Both Lederer and Hudson also discussed the Club’s ownership and executive structure, reinforcing the separation of responsibilities across the organisation.
Academy and player development focus
A key theme of the evening centred on Academy and pathway development.
Chairman Lederer acknowledged disappointment in aspects of Academy performance, while highlighting the importance of strengthening the connection between youth and senior football.
New Football Director Mal Impiombato outlined his role in building a clear football strategy and philosophy that flows from the senior men’s and women’s programs through to the Academy.
He emphasised the need for consistency, cultural alignment, and long-term planning, noting that major decisions will be required in the coming months to reposition the Club for future success.
Women’s football investment and structure
The forum also addressed the Club’s A-League Women’s program.
Scott Hudson spoke about perceptions around investment, confirming that spending in the women’s team increased by 30% this season, including the recruitment of four international players, two of whom were national team representatives, alongside Matilda Chloe Berryhill.
He noted that injuries to key recruits early in the season impacted continuity, but rejected suggestions of underinvestment.
Hudson also discussed player retention challenges in the women’s program and highlighted recent structural improvements designed to strengthen pathways and retention, including the introduction of the Club’s “Beyond the Game” initiative reconnecting past players.
Chairman Lederer also took accountability for the women’s program’s results.
Football Philosophy and cultural reset
Impiombato expanded on his vision for a clear football identity, stating the importance of defining what success looks like and ensuring alignment across all levels of the Club.
He emphasised culture, identity, and connection with the community as central pillars, stating that without the right values and environment, success cannot be achieved.
He added that the Club’s football identity must be clearly recognisable by the 2026/27 season.
Open mic: Member questions and accountability
The forum concluded with an extended Open Mic session, where Members raised a wide range of questions covering expectations, leadership, recruitment, facilities, and Club direction.
Key responses included:
- Performance expectations: Lederer reiterated his belief that every season begins with the intention to compete for success, while acknowledging the unpredictable nature of football.
- Leadership reflection: Questions around long-term decision-making and structure were met with acknowledgement of responsibility and emphasis on football outcomes.
- Club identity and legacy: Hudson addressed concerns around player legacy and connection with past players, confirming renewed engagement efforts and programs to reconnect former Wanderers.
- Recruitment and football model: Impiombato outlined plans for a clearer scouting and development system, with greater opportunity for Academy players to progress into senior football.
- Stadium and matchday experience: The Club confirmed there is no plan to move away from CommBank Stadium, while acknowledging ongoing discussions with authorities regarding matchday operations and supporter experience.
- Supporter engagement: Hudson confirmed the Club will introduce quarterly updates next season alongside increased forum opportunities and continued grassroots engagement across Western Sydney.
Looking ahead
The evening concluded with a commitment from the Club to continue engaging openly with Members and supporters, with a summary report to follow on official channels.
While the forum reflected a challenging season on the pitch, it also outlined a clear intent to reset structures, define identity, and rebuild alignment across football operations, pathways, and community engagement.
