Graham Arnold has resigned as Australia's head coach following a poor start in the third phase of Asia's 2026 World Cup qualifiers. The decision came after a 1-0 home defeat to Bahrain and a lackluster 0-0 draw against Indonesia.
Arnold, 61, led the national team for six years in his second stint. Facing criticism for Australia's recent performances, he described his resignation as "best for the nation."
Football Australia chief executive James Johnson, who had supported Arnold a week earlier, confirmed that the board accepted his resignation. Johnson emphasized the need to appoint a permanent successor before Australia faces China in October. "We have a match in less than three weeks' time, so our plan is not to appoint an interim coach," Johnson was quoted as saying by Reuters.
Arnold's tenure included a historic run to the last 16 at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, but recent struggles led to his decision. The Socceroos have had difficulties since then, exiting the Asian Cup in the quarter-finals in 2019 and 2023.
Australia's current fifth-place standing in their qualifying group highlighted ongoing challenges. Arnold believed new leadership was needed, stating, "I've made the decision to resign based upon what’s best for the nation, the players, and Football Australia."
Johnson expressed confidence in the team's ability to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, saying, "We believe in the players. We believe in the team."
Arnold's departure closes a chapter of highs in Qatar but also highlighted the ongoing issues for the Socceroos on the global stage.
