Ipswich Town defender Cameron Burgess will soon have a new boss at international level following Graham Arnold's decision to leave the Australian national team.
The Socceroos reached the knockout stages of the 2022 World Cup, losing to eventual champions Argentina in the round of 16, but have struggled since then. Tipped as one of the favourites to win the Asian Cup earlier this year, they were dumped out in the quarter-finals by South Korea.
They've progressed through to the third round of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup, but were beaten by Bahrain and held by Indonesia in their first two games.
As a result, Arnold has made the decision to resign ahead of the October international break, with Football Australia confirming that they will 'immediately commence the search for a new head coach as the Subway Socceroos'. No interim appointment has been made.
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Speaking after his resignation, Arnold said: "Leading the Subway Socceroos has been the pinnacle of my career and a true honour. 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 Subway 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.
“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.
Graham Arnold, the longest-serving coach in Subway #Socceroos history, will depart immediately from the role of head coach.
— Subway Socceroos (@Socceroos) September 20, 2024
Thank you for everything, Arnie.#ThankYouArnie
“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."
Arnold handed Burgess his senior international debut back in September 2023, with the 28-year-old going on to earn 10 caps for his country. Australia are back in action next month as they take on China and Japan in World Cup qualifying.
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