Tony Popovic unveiled as new Socceroos coach, taking over from Graham Arnold

Australia’s search for a successor to Graham Arnold lasted barely a weekend – with Tony Popovic parachuted into a World Cup qualification rescue mission.

BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA – MARCH 04: Coach Tony Popovic of the Wanderers reacts to the referees decision during the round 22 A-League match between the Brisbane Roar and the Western Sydney Wanderers at Suncorp Stadium on March 4, 2016 in Brisbane, Australia. (Photo by Bradley Kanaris/Getty Images)

Australia’s search for a new head coach took all of one weekend – with Tony Popovic unveiled on Monday afternoon as the man to take the Socceroos forward.

As revealed by CODE Sports on Sunday, Popovic was officially announced as Graham Arnold’s successor and will take up the task of salvaging a flagging World Cup qualification campaign.

The former Western Sydney Wanderers, Perth Glory and Melbourne Victory coach was introduced to the media at Football Australia’s headquarters in Sydney.

And he’s well aware there’s a big job ahead of him.

Popovic’s first task will be to bring the playing group together ahead of a must-win World Cup qualifier against China on October 10.

Tony Popovic has enjoyed great success at domestic level with Western Sydney Wanderers, Perth Glory and Melbourne Victory. Picture: Getty

Five days later, they face Asian powerhouse Japan in a match which could have a huge bearing on the Socceroos’ hopes of automatic qualification.

“I am extremely honoured to be given this opportunity to lead the Socceroos as head coach,” Popovic said in a statement.

“It’s a role that comes with great responsibility, and I’m deeply grateful for the opportunity.

“This is undoubtedly a very proud moment for myself and my family. To be entrusted with guiding our national team is a privilege that I do not take lightly.

“I want to express my sincere gratitude to Football Australia for their confidence in my abilities. Their trust motivates me to give my absolute best in this role.

Tony Popovic had a distinguished playing career for the Socceroos. Picture: Adam Smith

“I fully understand the weight of responsibility and the high expectations that come with this position. The Socceroos have a rich history and a passionate fan base, and I’m committed to living up to those expectations.

“Looking ahead, I have great faith and confidence in our ability to grow as a team. Together, we will work tirelessly to improve, evolve, and continue Australia’s success on the international stage. I believe we have the talent and determination to make our nation proud.”

Arnold stepped down as head coach on Friday, having ‘run out of gas’ according to Football Australia CEO James Johnson.

Socceroos legend Robbie Slater went a step further, saying the long-term mentor had ‘had a gutful’ of the criticism and abuse over his coaching methods and results.

“I reckon he’s finally had a gutful,” Slater wrote.

“Especially of the backstabbing, the nasty politics and the lack of support at so many levels.

“Calls for him to be sacked and outright hatred was levelled at him when the Socceroos were relegated to the intercontinental playoff qualifiers for the last World Cup.”

TONY POPOVIC’S COACHING RECORD

- A-League Success: He has won two A-League Premierships, first with Western Sydney Wanderers FC in 2012/13 and then with Perth Glory FC in 2018/19. During the 2023/24 season, Popovic led Melbourne Victory FC to the Grand Final.

- AFC Champions League Victory: In 2014, Popovic led Western Sydney Wanderers FC to become the first Australian team to win the prestigious AFC Champions League

- AFC Coach of the Year: His success in Asia was recognised when he was named AFC Coach of the Year in 2014.

Originally published as Tony Popovic unveiled as new Socceroos coach, taking over from Graham Arnold