Socceroos in turmoil after coach Graham Arnold quits
The Socceroos have just weeks to find a replacement coach for the long-serving Graham Arnold, following his shock resignation after a run of poor results.
Speculation had been swirling after Arnold declared he needed to “think about things” following the Socceroos 0-1 loss to Bahrain and draw with Indonesia earlier this month in World Cup qualifiers.
Arnold, 61, informed the Football Australia board he was standing down earlier this week and the decision was accepted, despite the Socceroos facing Round 3 AFC Asian Qualifiers against China and Japan in October.
Arnold has held the position since August 2018, marking his second tenure as head coach of the Australian Men’s National Team following an interim stint from 2006 to 2007.
In a statement, James Johnson, CEO of Football Australia, praised Arnold’s legacy and said his contribution to the sport in this country could not be underestimated.
Arnold guided the Socceroos to their best ever finish at a Soccer World Cup, as they advanced past the group stage, losing to eventual winner Argentina in the Round of 16 in 2022.
“Graham Arnold’s departure marks the end of an era for Australian football,” Johnson said.
“His contributions to the sport and the Socceroos are undeniable.
“Under his leadership, we reached incredible milestones that showcased Australian football on the world stage. Graham’s passion and dedication will leave a lasting impact on both the team and the nation.”
With the World Cup qualifiers just weeks away, the Socceroos are aiming to name a replacement promptly, with Mile Jedinak, who is working under fellow Australian Ange Postecoglou at English Premier League club Tottenham sure to be a name discussed.
Other former Socceroos that will come into contention include Shanghai Port’s Kevin Muscat, ex-Melbourne Victory mentor Tony Popović and Western United coach John Aloisi.
“While we respect his decision and are saddened to see him go, such transitions are part of international football,” he said.
“We are moving swiftly to appoint a new head coach to maintain momentum, especially with the critical AFC Asian Qualifiers approaching. Our priority is to find the right leader who can build on Graham’s legacy and guide the team confidently into the future.”
Arnold, who has also coached the Australian Under 23 team, described coaching the Socceroos as a dream come true.
“Leading the Socceroos has been the pinnacle of my career,” he said.
“I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished—from setting records to nurturing new talent and making history on the global stage. After careful thought, I believe it’s time for fresh leadership to take the team forward.
“I extend my deepest gratitude to the players, staff, Football Australia, and the fans for their unwavering support. The future is bright for the Socceroos, and I’m confident they will continue to succeed.
“After 40 years in Australian football, including six years as Socceroos head coach, I’ve given everything to this role.
“Following our match against Indonesia, I knew it was time for change, both for me and for the team. My decision is based on what I believe is best for the players, the program, and Football Australia.”
Australian online bookmakers are yet to frame a market for the next coach of the Socceroos.