Graham Arnold has stepped down as coach of the Socceroos weeks out from Australia’s next World Cup qualifier, effectively immediately

Football Australia confirmed his departure in a statement on Friday morning.

The 61-year-old has held the position since August 2018.

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“Leading the Socceroos has been the pinnacle of my career and a true honour,” Arnold said in a statement.

“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.

“I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the players, my staff, Football Australia, and our passionate fans for their unwavering support. The 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.”

Arnold’s departure comes after Australia suffered a 1-0 loss to Bahrain on the Gold Coast and clinched a 0-0 draw against Indonesia in Jakarta, picking up just one point from their opening two games of third round World Cup qualifying.

Those results hit Australia’s hopes of automatic qualification for the 2026 World Cup ahead of matches against China in Adelaide on 10 October before heading to face undefeated Japan in Saitama on 15 October.

“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,” Arnold continued.

“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.”

During his six-year reign, Arnold steered Australia towards its best-ever finish at a Men’s FIFA World Cup along with two quarter-final exits at the Asian Cup.

The former Australia and Sydney United representative was expected to take the Socceroos to the 2026 World Cup after signing a four-year deal following the 2022 tournament in Qatar.

“Graham Arnold’s departure marks the end of an era for Australian football,” Football Australia chief executive James Johnson said in a statement.

“His contributions to the sport and the Socceroos are there for all to see. 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.”

Johnson, who will speak to reporters in Sydney on Friday afternoon, also confirmed Football Australia had begun the process of seeking a new head coach.