Football Australia today confirmed the permanent appointment of Tony Popovic as the new head coach of the Subway Socceroos. 

Popovic assumes responsibility for the men’s national team with immediate effect, with his first assignment being to lead the team through the critical Third Round of the AFC Asian Qualifiers™ – Road to 26 with the next window in October 2024.

A highly respected figure in Australian football, Popovic brings an impressive depth of experience in both domestic and international football. His achievements include coaching Western Sydney Wanderers FC to the AFC Champions League™ title in 2014 and winning two A-League Premierships. He is now tasked with guiding the Subway Socceroos toward qualification for the FIFA World Cup 2026™.

Popovic’s appointment extends through the FIFA World Cup 2026™, marking a new era for the national team.
 

Statement from Anter Isaac, Chairman of Football Australia: “Tony Popovic’s appointment represents an exciting new chapter for the Subway Socceroos at a critical stage.

“As a player, Tony represented our nation proudly and with distinction at every age group. As a coach, he has consistently demonstrated an ability to develop winning teams through his attention to detail, meticulous planning, and ability to harmonise a collective focus, and like Graham was, we know he will be welcomed warmly by all our Subway Socceroos players, staff, and fans as we continue to work towards FIFA World Cup 2026™ qualification.

“We are proud and delighted to have Tony on board and look forward to supporting him as he builds momentum with the team under his stewardship. His leadership, beginning immediately, will be vital as we head into the upcoming qualifiers.”

Statement from James Johnson, CEO of Football Australia: “We are delighted to confirm Tony Popovic as the head coach of the Subway Socceroos.

“Tony’s proven leadership and strategic football acumen combined with his deep understanding of Australian football, our players, and what it means to be a Socceroo, makes him the ideal choice to lead our national team moving forward. His international experience, particularly across Asia, both as a player and a coach, further strengthens his ability to navigate the global football landscape and drive success for Australia on the world stage.

“We have moved swiftly to secure the best possible candidate for this crucial role. Our prompt action reflects our commitment to maintaining the momentum and success of the Socceroos program, especially as we are at the beginning of the critical Third Round of AFC Asian Qualifiers™ – Road to 26.

“As we continue the next phase of FIFA World Cup™ qualification, Tony will play a key role in building on the success of the team and ensuring that we are well-prepared for the challenges ahead. His immediate task will be to lead the squad through the AFC Asian Qualifiers, and we are confident that under his leadership, the team will continue to excel on the international stage.”

Statement from Tony Popovic: “I am extremely honoured to be given this opportunity to lead the Subway Socceroos as head coach. 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.

“I fully understand the weight of responsibility and the high expectations that come with this position. The Subway 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.”

Tony Popovic Biography

Coaching Achievements

Popovic’s coaching career has been marked by numerous triumphs:

• 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™.
• Australia Cup Triumph: In 2022, Popovic also lifted the Australia Cup 2021 trophy with Melbourne Victory. 
• AFC Coach of the Year: His success in Asia was recognised when he was named AFC Coach of the Year in 2014.

Playing Career

Before his coaching success, Popovic had an illustrious playing career:

• International Experience: He earned 58 caps (Cap #407) for the Socceroos between 1995 and 2006 and was part of the 2006 FIFA World Cup™ squad.
• Club Career: Popovic played professionally in Australia, Japan, England, and Qatar, including a significant stint with Crystal Palace in the English Premier League.

Leadership and Innovation

• Popovic is known for his ability to build successful teams from the ground up. He led Western Sydney Wanderers FC to remarkable success in their inaugural season (2012/13), winning the Premiership and being named A-League Coach of the Year.
• His tactical acumen, leadership skills, and experience in both domestic and international football make Tony Popovic an ideal choice to lead the Subway Socceroos into their next chapter of international competition.

READ MORE: Frequently Asked Questions – Tony Popovic Appointed Head Coach of the Subway Socceroos