The Australian coach’s candid confession after being humiliated by the Indonesian team

VIVA – Graham Arnold has decided to step down as head coach of Australia. He admitted that the draw with Indonesia was one of the reasons.

World Cup qualifiers Australia had a disappointing performance against Indonesia. Competing at Gelora Bung Karno (SUGBK) in Jakarta on 10 September 2024, Australia drew 0-0.

The result leaves Australia in fifth place with one point from two games. Prior to the match against Indonesia, Australia suffered a 1-0 home defeat to Bahrain.

“I said after the Indonesia game that I had to make some decisions,” Arnold told the Socceroos’ official website.

“After much consideration, my instincts told me it was time for a change, both for me and for this program,” he added.

Arnold has coached Australia since August 2018, leading the Kangaroos to the 2022 World Cup final, where they lost to eventual champions Argentina.

Arnold is the longest-serving coach in Australian national team history. Previously, Arnold was an assistant coach and head coach. Arnold has a 40-year career in Australian football, including serving as head coach of Australia’s Under-23s.

“Leading the Australian national team is the pinnacle of my career and an honour. I am very proud of my achievements, from breaking records to nurturing new talent and making history on the world stage. After consideration,” he said.

“I have served Australian football for 40 years. I want to say a huge thank you to everyone who has been a part of this journey over the past six years.

“I wish this incredible team and support staff the best of luck in their run to this World Cup,” he said.