Fremantle Dockers great Peter Bell among candidates to take over Collingwood Magpies football manager job

Collingwood Football Club is set to explore its options for a new football manager, with Fremantle Dockers legend Peter Bell emerging as a strong contender for the role.

Bell, who has a storied career both on and off the field, is being considered for the pivotal position at the Magpies following the departure of long-serving football manager Geoff Walsh earlier this year. Walsh’s departure after a distinguished tenure has left a significant vacancy at the heart of the club’s football operations, prompting Collingwood to search for a successor who can help lead the club to future success.

The 44-year-old Bell, who currently serves as Fremantle’s General Manager of Football, is known for his sharp football acumen and leadership skills. As a player, Bell was a key figure in Fremantle’s rise to prominence in the early 2000s and later became an integral part of the club’s administrative structure. His strong understanding of the game, combined with his extensive network within the AFL, positions him as a highly appealing candidate for Collingwood.

While Collingwood has yet to officially confirm its shortlist, sources close to the club indicate that Bell’s name has been prominently discussed, with his experience in both football operations and management making him a natural fit for the role.

The Magpies are looking for someone capable of overseeing all aspects of the club’s football department, including list management, recruitment, and player development, while maintaining a close relationship with coach Craig McRae and the senior playing group. Bell’s previous experience in these areas at Fremantle, where he has played a significant role in shaping the club’s list management strategy, would provide him with the expertise to navigate the challenges of Collingwood’s football operations.

The football manager position at Collingwood is one of the most important roles at any AFL club, and with the Magpies aiming to build on their success in recent years, securing a top-tier football manager will be a crucial step in the club’s long-term plans.

As the club continues its search, Peter Bell’s name will undoubtedly remain at the forefront of discussions, and the AFL world will be watching closely to see if he decides to take on this new challenge at Collingwood.