Cklamovski to extend Postecoglou’s legacy as Salford eye League Two promotion
On a bright morning at Moor Lane, 47‑year‑old Peter Cklamovski stepped onto the pitch, his eyes fixed on the orange‑clad crowd as he declared his ambition to guide Salford City back to League One in the 2026‑27 League Two promotion race.
A globe‑spanning coaching résumé
Cklamovski arrived in England after a distinguished stint across Australia, Japan and Greece, where he served as a long‑term assistant to Ange Postecoglou. Their partnership spanned 15 years, including work with the Socceroos that led to an AFC Asian Cup triumph and a 2014 World Cup appearance.
In Japan he earned plaudits at Shimizu S‑Pulse, Montedio Yamagata and FC Tokyo for his attacking, high‑energy style and his development of young talent. He also impressed while coaching the Malaysia national team, further cementing his reputation in Asian football.
Salford’s ambitious rebuild
The appointment came after Salford’s owners – David Beckham, Gary Neville and chief football adviser Paul Scholes – sought a fresh vision. CEO Gavin Fleig, a former City Football Group executive, identified Cklamovski during a family holiday in the UK and, after a data‑driven interview, presented him as the ideal candidate.
Scholes admitted he had to google the Australian coach, highlighting the risk of hiring someone without English‑football experience. The club’s previous manager, Karl Robinson, was dismissed after missing automatic promotion and losing the play‑off final.
With a boosted playing budget, Salford have reverted to their traditional orange colours, upgraded the Littleton Road training ground owned by Manchester United, and overhauled the medical department. Statement signings include League Two Golden Boot winner Macaulay Langstaff and Team of the Season winger Luke Molyneux.
Cklamovski stressed continuity, saying he will build on Robinson’s foundation while taking the team to “another level”. He promised a “goalscoring mentality” paired with defensive solidity, urging fans to stay humble and work hard.
The season opens against Barnet after a recent EFL Cup penalty shoot‑out loss to Shrewsbury, providing the first real test of whether his aggressive philosophy can translate into results and entertainment for the Salford community.