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Outgoing Hawthorn coach Alastair Clarkson says he will take plenty of time to contemplate his future before even considering any offers from rival AFL clubs.
Master AFL coach Alastair Clarkson is leaving his future wide open as he prepares to hand over the Hawthorn job to Sam Mitchell at the end of 2022.
Clarkson will part ways with Hawthorn after four premierships in 18 seasons, setting in motion another chase from rival clubs for the most decorated coach of the modern era.
The 53-year-old believes the upcoming scenario will be no different to most during his career, which has constantly seen him linked to other teams.
"I don't mean to say this in a manner that portrays arrogance or ego, but I've had plenty of opportunities over the journey to move," Clarkson said in a media briefing.
"Including a significant offer from North Melbourne last year, which (Sydney coach John Lomgmire) and I were heavily courted by North Melbourne."
Clarkson is non-committal on his plans post-Hawthorn, with Mitchell to continue coaching the Hawks' VFL affiliate Box Hill next year.
"My moral obligation is the commitment I made to the players and to the club and that is through to the end of next year," Clarkson said.
"At the end of next year, I'm hoping to be able to take a breath and see what life looks like.
"What I call the five Fs - family, football, friends, my farm and fitness.
"Unfortunately because of footy, the other four are compromised. I'm embarrassed to say that."
Hawthorn's move to secure Mitchell came with the former Hawks skipper in talks with Collingwood about their vacant coaching position.
He showed interest in replacing Nathan Buckley but informed the Magpies in recent days he would be pulling out of the interview process.