Socceroos coach Graham Arnold walks away amid a dismal start to Australia’s World Cup qualification

Australia is on the hunt for a new coach, after longtime Socceroos mentor Graham Arnold walked away in the midst of a dismal start to their World Cup qualification campaign.

Football Australia is on the hunt for a second national team coach with Socceroos manager Graham Arnold stepping down from the top role following a dismal start to their World Cup qualifier campaign.

Arnold appeared frustrated following the Socceroos opening two Round 3 qualifier games which resulted in a 0-1 loss to Bahrain and a 0-0 draw with Indonesia.

While Football Australia boss James Johnson last week threw his support behind the coach, who has been at the helm since 2018.

Football Australia said Arnold advised them of the decision earlier this week.

Arnold said leading the Socceroos had been the “pinnacle” of his career and a “true honour”.

“I’m incredibly proud of our achievements – from breaking records to nurturing new talent and making history on the global stage. After careful consideration, I believe it’s time for fresh leadership to guide the team forward,” Arnold said.

Graham Arnold looked downcast after Australia’s shock defeat to Bahrain on the Gold Coast a fortnight ago. Picture: Getty

“I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the players, my staff, Football Australia, and our passionate fans for their unwavering support. The Subway Socceroos have a bright future ahead, and I’m confident they will continue to excel.

“I’ve given 40 years of service to Australian football, with the last six years in my role as Socceroos’ head coach.

“I said after our game against Indonesia that I had some decisions to make, and after deep reflection, my gut has told me it’s time for change, both for myself and the program.

“I’ve made the decision to resign based upon what’s best for the nation, the players and Football Australia. I’ve given absolutely everything I can to the role, and I am immensely proud of what has been achieved during my tenure.

“To witness the personal and football growth of this playing group, the identity and brotherhood which has been formed and now revered by others, and the way this team galvanised a country during its record-breaking feats in Qatar will forever be highlights.

“I would like to sincerely thank everyone, particularly the Australian football family, who has been part of this journey over the past six years and wish this incredible team and support staff nothing but success for this FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign.”

Graham Arnold’s time as Socceroos coach ended in disappointment. Picture: Getty

Football Australia CEO, who just last week threw his support behind the coach, said Arnold’s departure was an end of an era.

“His contributions to the sport and the Subway Socceroos are there for all to see,” Johnson said.

“Under Graham’s leadership, we achieved remarkable milestones that elevated Australian football on the global stage. Graham’s passion and dedication have left an indelible mark on the team and Australian football.

“While we respect his decision and are saddened to see Graham leave the national team set-up, this scenario is not uncommon in international football.

“We will act swiftly in appointing a new head coach to ensure continuity and stability, particularly as we approach the crucial second window of the AFC Asian Qualifiers next month.

“Our focus now shifts to finding the right candidate who can build upon the foundations which Graham leaves behind and guide the team forward with confidence.

“Time is of the essence, and we are fully committed to making the transition as smooth as possible to keep the Subway Socceroos on track for continued success.”

GOLD COAST, AUSTRALIA – SEPTEMBER 05: Australian Head Coach Graham Arnold speaks to the media after the round three 2026 FIFA World Cup AFC Asian Qualifier match between Australia Socceroos and Bahrain at Robina Stadium on September 05, 2024 in Gold Coast, Australia. (Photo by Chris Hyde/Getty Images)

It is the second national coach Football Australia has parted ways within as many months with Matildas head coach Tony Gustavsson’s contract not renewed following their poor performance at the Paris Olympics.

Arnold has celebrated a number of successes during his reign including leading the Socceroos to their best ever finish at a World Cup and two Asian Cup quarter-finals.

Details around Arnold’s exit are yet to be confirmed by Football Australia - a press conference has been called for this afternoon.

Arnold still had two years left on the new four-year contract he signed after their 2022 World Cup success.

Football Australia will be in a race against the clock to find a replacement with the Socceroos due to play a must win game against China on October 10 in their next World Cup qualifier and then travel to take on Japan on October 15.

It is likely FA will follow the same path as they are with the Matildas - opting to appoint an interim coach and launch a global search for the next coach of the men’s team.

Originally published as Socceroos coach Graham Arnold walks away amid a dismal start to Australia’s World Cup qualification