Malthouse is brimming with confidence and fierceness ahead of the Blues' opening NAB Cup matches next Sunday against Sydney and Greater Western Sydney.
The three-time premiership coach led the Magpies from 2000-11, including the 2010 flag.
He handed over to Nathan Buckley under a negotiated succession plan, but eventually left the club under strained circumstances.
"I'm not saying for one moment I don't remember we're playing Collingwood in (rounds) two and 15," he said on Sunday at Carlton's family day.
"Strange about that - I couldn't tell you [who we're playing in rounds] 13 and 14."
To the delight of Carlton fans, Malthouse made it clear that whatever his coaching past, he is now very much one of them.
"You build certainly a supporter-base respect, but at the same token a hatred for them - it's a kind hatred," Malthouse said of Carlton's traditional rivals such as Collingwood, Essendon and Richmond.
"I have a very soft spot for some of the sides I've coached, basically it's a swamp at the back of Bourke.
"I'm very, very pleased to be here coaching the Blues ... I'm delighted to be here."
In a club publication last week, Malthouse was quoted as saying the Blues could have the makings of a premiership side this season.
Certainly they have a much healthier list than a year ago, when they were beset by injuries.
The Blues lost all five of their pre-season games, setting the scene for a disastrous season that ultimately cost Brett Ratten his job as coach and led to Malthouse taking over.
There was loud applause at the family day when Malthouse was introduced, but also a warm reception when Ratten's name was mentioned.
President Stephen Kernahan told fans they had reason to be confident.
"The team is in a fantastic place - it's adapting to a new style and a new attitude ... and very importantly, to win back respect after a couple of ordinary performances last year," he said.
"It's been pleasing as I've walked past the medical room over the last few months to see it just about empty, which is fantastic."
Malthouse said wins in the NAB Cup would be a priority.
"We want to identify it as something where we go out and we want to win every possible game," he said.
"Make no mistake about it - experimentation, yes, but we want to win.
"The only way to win is to have players up and embrace your game structure."
