Graham Arnold has quit as coach of the Socceroos, Football Australia said Friday, following a poor start to the third round of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup. "After careful consideration I believe it's time for fresh leadership to guide the team forward," said the 61-year-old, who had been in charge since 2018. Arnold departs after a shock 1-0 home defeat to Bahrain earlier this month then a goalless draw at Indonesia left Australia with one point from their opening two matches in the decisive third round of qualifying for 2026. 

In post-match interviews following the draw with Indonesia, the under-pressure Arnold had struggled to hide his frustration after his team squandered a string of opportunities. Bayern Munich teenager Nestory Irankunda hit the post with Australia's best chance as the Socceroos had 19 shots but failed to score for the second consecutive match. "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 programme," he said. "I've given absolutely everything I can to the role and I am immensely proud of what has been achieved during my tenure."