It was always a danger with such a well credentialed coach but NZRL chief executive Greg Peters is adamant Maguire's potential new position won't affect his ability or desire to coach the Kiwis.
"We have indicated on a number of occasions, and when we appointed Michael, that he is absolutely committed to New Zealand," said Peters. "But if he pursues another NRL position or coaching position, we will support that as well. He wants to win a World Cup. We have no reason to doubt his commitment."
Peters said it was no surprise to him that Maguire, who agreed a four-year deal as Kiwis coach earlier this year, was close to returning to a club role.
"Obviously he wants to coach more than less, as all coaches do," said Peters. "That's what they do and who they are. And we support that, because we want the best coach possible coaching the Kiwis and we believe we have got that, so we need to be able to support him to continue in his role coaching New Zealand."
Maguire has been reluctant to comment on any speculation regarding his future, shutting down questions regarding club negotiations in the build-up to the Kangaroos-Kiwis clash two weeks ago, and also in the aftermath of that win.
Maguire was appointed last May, after a selection panel conducted interviews with him, Laurie Daley, Geoff Toovey and Des Hasler, though Hasler withdrew his application soon after the interview process concluded.
At the time of Maguire's appointment, former Kiwis captain Dean Bell, who headed the selection panel, didn't downplay the fact Maguire was a likely NRL coach in waiting.
"That might be the case but we just wanted to appoint the best candidate possible," said Bell.
