Graham Arnold expected to step down as manager of the Socceroos
The Socceroos need to find a new head coach in the next fortnight with Graham Arnold set to resign with immediate effect.
Updated 2024-Oct-06 22:34
AAP reported that the Socceroos must release a squad for the upcoming October matches against China and Japan in just over two weeks.
His probable departure means that the FA will need to urgently search for a temporary coach while they look for the next permanent Matildas coach.
Arnold held talks with FA officials earlier this week with reports suggesting he signaled his readiness to step down following a difficult six year tenure.
Despite the assumption that he would make changes to his team and strategy Arnold s critics have often complained about Australia s struggle to score against weaker opponents.
However the Socceroos manager is actually contemplating his next steps. Arnold was clearly upset following the tie with Indonesia and promised to take some time to deeply reflect on the situation.
The Socceroos will play against China in Adelaide on 10 October and then travel to face Japan who are undefeated in Saitama on 15 October.
Graham Arnold is set to step down as Socceroos manager before Australia’s next World Cup qualifier in October.
Sources familiar with negotiations told AAP that Arnold has been in dialogue with Football Australia this week ironing out an exit strategy from a role he has held since 2018.
The Socceroos inability to score in two matches has caused Australia to be in second to last place in group C putting their chances of securing a top two finish and automatic qualification in uncertainty.
The Socceroos experienced a surprising 1 0 defeat against Bahrain on the Gold Coast followed by a frustrating draw against Indonesia.
However the ex Sydney FC and Central Coast Mariners manager has decided to abandon the remaining two years of the agreement due to a disappointing beginning in the third round of qualification.
In June of this year Arnold expressed his confidence in having a team that could make it to the semi finals in North America within the next two years.
After Australia s showing in Qatar Arnold was given a new four year contract by FA and declined offers to manage at club level in order to lead.
