Will Josh Fraser coach Carlton in 2027?
Carlton's stunning 76-point demolition of reigning premiers Brisbane has only intensified speculation surrounding Josh Fraser's coaching future.
Following one of the club's most complete performances in recent seasons, the interim coach was inevitably asked whether Saturday night's result had put him in the box seat to become Carlton's senior coach in 2027.
Fraser didn't provide a definitive answer—but he did reveal a decision is imminent.
Despite guiding Carlton's remarkable turnaround since taking over mid-season, Fraser said he is yet to formally enter the process, telling Fox Footy
"I haven't put my hand up for the job yet or to go through the process."
The former Collingwood and Gold Coast assistant revealed he would make up his mind this week after previously putting all of his attention into preparing for Brisbane.
"This week I'll come to a decision... I'm really enjoying the opportunity."
Fraser admitted the experience has accelerated his own coaching development.
"I'm almost convinced that you're never a finished product in terms of being ready."
The win over Brisbane doesn't change anything. While many outside Carlton believe the comprehensive victory over Brisbane should make Fraser the clear favourite, the 42-year-old insisted one result would not determine his future.
When asked whether defeating the reigning premiers had changed his thinking, Fraser was emphatic in telling Fox Footy.
"No."
He also stressed that wins and losses alone shouldn't determine whether someone is appointed senior coach.
"I'd love to think the win-loss column doesn't determine anything anyway. I'd like to think it's more about process and what we're doing."
Can Carlton make finals in 2026?
Carlton's fate is firmly in its own hands after climbing back into the finals race with the emphatic victory over Brisbane. The Blues are now in 10th position and face St Kilda in Round 22 in a match that might decide just which side grabs the final wildcard slot.
The Blues sit on 10 wins and are a game clear of the Saints and 12th placed GWS, who are 9-11 following their win over Port Adelaide.
A win over St Kilda would likely end the Saints season but GWS can challenge with their superior percentage. It may come down to the final Saturday of the home and away season when the Blues face a stiff assignment against Fremantle, while GWS travel to Adelaide to take on the Crows.
Who do Carlton play in the remaining home and away matches?
The Blues take on St Kilda, the Western Bulldogs and Fremantle, with those three matches to be played at Marvel Stadium, where the Blues have won their past four.
St Kilda face Carlton, Richmond at the MCG and Gold Coast at Marvel, while GWS have winnable matches against Gold Coast and West Coast at home before travelling to Adelaide.
St Kilda are slightly favoured at the $1.90 quote to finish in the top 10 ahead of Carlton at $2.60. GWS are $5.