Graham Arnold bombshell leaves Socceroos in tatters

Football Australia has been hit with a bombshell after Socceroos coach Graham Arnold departed the role with immediate effect.

Graham Arnold has bolted out the door. (Photo by Chris Hyde/Getty Images)

The Socceroos are in tatters after coach Graham Arnold dropped a bombshell on the national team.

Arnold, 61, has made the shock decision to step down effective immediately from the coaching role after six years in charge.

After taking over in 2018, Arnold led the Socceroos to the final 16 during the 2022 World Cup and was expected to be at the helm for the 2026 campaign.

But his decision now leaves Football Australia scrambling to find a replacement as the Socceroos continue to look ahead to their next World Cup qualifier.

Arnold’s shock call comes just weeks before Australia’s next qualifier against China in Adelaide on October 10.

Graham Arnold has bolted out the door. (Photo by Chris Hyde/Getty Images)

His decision comes after the Socceroos picked up just one point from a possible six in their opening two games during the third round of qualifying.

Australia lost to Bahrain on the Gold Coast and then were held scoreless in a 0-0 draw with Indonesia in Jakarta.

Football Australia is now scrambling to find a replacement coach for both the men’s and women’s national teams.

“Leading the Subway Socceroos has been the pinnacle of my 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 in a statement.

“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 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.”

The end of an era. (Photo by Robertus Pudyanto/Getty Images)

Football Australia issued a statement on Friday morning, confirming Arnold’s departure and thanking him for his contributions to the sport.

“Graham Arnold’s departure marks the end of an era for Australian football. His contributions to the sport and the Subway Socceroos are there for all to see,” FA CEO James 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.”

Arnold’s news caught everyone by surprise. (Photo by Matt Roberts/Getty Images)

News of Arnold’s decision to step down with immediate effect caught Australian football fans off guard, with many believing the time was right for Arnold to call time on his career.

Mark Gottlieb wrote on X: “Arnold should’ve finished up as Socceroos coach after the World Cup. That run was great and cemented a legacy for him. There was no win for either Arnold or Football Australia if he stayed on. Disappointment was inevitable and a sacking/resignation likely.”

Daniel Garb wrote: “It did feel as if Graham Arnold wasn’t up for a renewed bout of pressure & that’s understandable considering what he’s been through before. Wasn’t the perfect manager, nor everyone’s cup of tea. But he did get us back in the Olympics in 2021, will always have Redmayne v Peru and our greatest ever World Cup finish.”

Shane Beaton added: “Absolutely the right time for Graham Arnold to go. His position, which was already on thin ice, had become untenable following the recent results and subsequent media interactions. That aside, let us not forget the amazing run that was the 2022 World Cup. Credit where it’s due.”

Originally published as Graham Arnold bombshell leaves Socceroos in tatters