Collingwood legend Nathan Buckley has spoken hours after Melbourne announced Steven King as their new head coach for 2026, after firming as one of the final five contenders for the vacancy.

Fox Footy commentator and veteran journalist Gerard Whateley broke the news of King’s appointment on Friday afternoon, who usurped four other contenders for the top job.

Speaking on Fox Footy in the build-up to the Adelaide vs. Hawthorn semi-final, the former Magpies coach was quick to congratulate the current Geelong midfield coach on his new appointment.

Semi Final

AFL Sep 12 7:40pm AEST Adelaide Hawthorn MATCH CENTRE *Odds are current as of 12th September 2025, 7:41pm AEST VIEW ALL SCORES AFL Sep 13 7:35pm AEST Brisbane Gold Coast MATCH CENTRE *Odds are current as of 1

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