I Am Coming Back to Revive the Team and See Us – Collingwood Win Again, Says Former Head Coach Nathan Buckley as He Returns to Collingwood as Strategic Advisor In a stunning twist that has electrified the AFL community, **former Collingwood head coach Nathan Buckley** has officially returned to the club he once led with unwavering passion — not as a coach, but in a strategic advisory role** aimed at reinvigorating the struggling Magpies. Buckley, who stepped down as head coach in 2021 after nearly a decade at the helm, announced his return in an emotionally charged press conference at the AIA Centre on Sunday morning. His message was clear: “I am coming back to revive the team and see us  Collingwood win again. The news follows a turbulent stretch for the Magpies, who, despite winning the 2023 premiership under Craig McRae, have seen a significant slump in form this season. Injuries, inconsistency, and mounting pressure have led to calls for experienced leadership behind the scenes — and few figures loom larger in the club’s modern history than Buckley. A Magpie Legend Returns Nathan Buckley’s connection to Collingwood is deep and enduring. A former Brownlow Medalist and one of the game’s most respected figures, Buckley played 260 games for the club and served as captain from 1999 to 2007 before transitioning into coaching. His 10-year coaching tenure included multiple finals appearances and a narrow Grand Final loss in 2018. Now, Buckley returns not to take over the top job, but to provide **strategic guidance and cultural leadership working closely with McRae and the football department. This isn’t about ego or reclaiming the past,” Buckley said. “It’s about helping where I can. I love this club — I’ve lived and breathed black and white. And I couldn’t just sit back and watch us lose our way without offering something. Club president Jeff Browne welcomed the move, describing it as a “reunion of purpose. Nathan’s experience, knowledge of the game, and understanding of our club culture make him uniquely qualified to help guide us through this difficult patch,” Browne said. “This is not a coaching coup — this is about unity and revival.” Supporting, Not Replacing Craig McRae, who remains the head coach, was reportedly involved in discussions about Buckley’s return and is said to have welcomed the support. The two are expected to work in tandem, with Buckley focusing on high-level analysis, player leadership development, and long-term strategy. Bucks brings a wealth of insight,” McRae said. “We’re aligned in wanting what’s best for the players, the fans, and this great club. I’m excited to have him around again. While Buckley’s return doesn’t mean he’s taking charge on game day, many believe his presence alone could have a galvanizing effect on a group that has struggled to find rhythm and confidence. Fan Reaction and Expectations The Collingwood faithful — one of the most passionate supporter bases in the AFL — has greeted the news with overwhelming positivity. Social media erupted with celebratory posts, with many praising Buckley’s loyalty and willingness to step in when the club needed him most. This is leadership. This is Collingwood, wrote one fan on X. “Welcome home, Bucks. Still, the move comes with pressure. Expectations are sky-high, and with the Magpies currently outside the top eight, there’s little room for error. A New Chapter Begins Buckley was clear in stating that his return is **not a comeback tour**, but rather a contribution born out of deep love for the club. I’m not here to relive old glories,” he said. “I’m here to help us write new ones. Whether this move marks the beginning of a Collingwood resurgence or simply a temporary solution remains to be seen. But one thing is certain: **with Nathan Buckley back in the fold, Collingwood has reclaimed part of its soul** — and with it, perhaps, a path back to greatness….