'I have struggled': Graham Arnold reveals result that led him to quit as Socceroos coach
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Graham Arnold has sensationally resigned as head coach of the Socceroos, effective immediately and one possible replacement is out of the running.
Arnold, the men's national team's longest-ever serving coach, advised Football Australia earlier this week of his decision to step down from the role. This was subsequently accepted by the governing body's board.
The Socceroos will now join the Matildas in hunting for a new head coach with Football Australia signalling its intent to lock down a new mentor ahead of the second international window of round three AFC Asian Qualifiers next month. Kevin Muscat will not be one of them, according to The Sydney Morning Herald.
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Graham Arnold, Head Coach of Australia looks out into the distance. Getty
Muscat is currently in charge of Chinese Super League ladder leaders Shanghai Port FC but has recently signed an extension at the club.
The search for Australia's next coach will occur under the shadow of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America.
Arnold, 61, has served as head coach of the Socceroos since August 2018.
He also acted in the role in an interim capacity between 2006 and 2007.
Speaking after his departure, Arnold revealed the pain of being knocked out in the quarter final of the 2023 Asian Cup has been difficult to move past.
"I've got to be honest ... I have struggled a little bit since the Asian Cup loss," he said.
"I truly went to that Asian Cup thinking that we were going to win it. Probably over the last six months I've tried to convince myself to keep going, to keep going, to keep going and as I said, in my gut, it just hasn't felt right.
"I do believe that I've got the maximum out of this group of players. When I say that, someone else can come in and get more – but at this moment I feel that I've done everything I possibly can. And for me, it's not about Graham Arnold. This is about the nation of Australia. This is about what's good for the players, what's good for the organisation and good for the nation."
Arnold departs with the Socceroos' World Cup qualifying campaign in disarray after a deflating 0-0 draw with Indonesia and 0-0 draw with Indonesia earlier this month.
In a statement, Arnold reflected on his time with the team and thanked the "Australian football family" for its support across his six-year tenure.
"Leading the Socceroos has been the pinnacle of my career and a true honour," he said.
"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 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."
Football Australia boss James Johnson acknowledged Arnold's sentiment passion and dedication to the side.
"Graham Arnold's departure marks the end of an era for Australian football," he said.
"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.
Graham Arnold at the 2022 FIFA World Cup Qatar. Getty
Johnson concluded by stating that the next Socceroos' head coach would need to align with the side's vision for the future.
"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," he said.
"Our focus now shifts to finding the right candidate who can build upon the foundations which Graham leaves behind and guide the team forward with confidence.
"Time is of the essence, and we are fully committed to making the transition as smooth as possible to keep the Subway Socceroos on track for continued success."
