Graham Arnold has stepped down as the head coach of the Australian national football team, concluding his second six-year term following a disappointing start to the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign.

The team faced a troubling 1-0 home defeat to Bahrain, followed by a goalless draw against Indonesia, raising doubts about its future direction.

Despite receiving support from Football Australia (FA) chief executive James Johnson just a week prior, Arnold decided it was time for a change. “After our game against Indonesia, I reflected deeply and felt it was time to step aside,” he stated in an FA release. “I’ve made this decision for the best interests of the nation, the players, and Football Australia. I am proud of what we have achieved during my time.”

Arnold’s resignation surprised many, especially given his success in leading Australia to the Round of 16 at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Under his guidance, the Socceroos made history by winning two group-stage matches for the first time.

However, despite the achievements in Qatar, Australia has struggled in the Asian region. Once dominant after winning the 2015 Asian Cup, the team has failed to regain its form, with Arnold’s tenure marked by quarter-final exits in the Asian Cup in both 2019 and 2023 and ongoing issues in their attack.

At a news conference, Johnson acknowledged Arnold’s decision and emphasized the need to appoint a new coach ahead of Australia’s next World Cup qualifier against China in October. “We have a match in less than three weeks, so our plan is to find a permanent coach who shares our vision and can bring out the best in this team as we aim for the 2026 World Cup,” he explained.