Overview

• King said his first priority is keeping Christian Petracca and Clayton Oliver, noting he has texted Petracca and plans in‑person meetings with both.
• He pledged a more aggressive, faster style that gives players greater freedom with ball in hand, describing a technology‑informed, contemporary game plan.
• The incoming coach said he believes Melbourne can push to contend as soon as next season after several narrow losses in 2025.
• King confirmed he has the blessing of both clubs to finish Geelong duties and will return to the Cats this week during their premiership tilt.
• CEO Paul Guerra cited King’s communication, modern tactics, and use of technology as key reasons for his selection after a broad search that considered Nathan Buckley, with Petracca contracted through 2029 and Oliver previously linked to a near‑move providing context for the retention push.