Tony Popović to lead Socceroos in 2026 World Cup campaign

Tony Popović is poised to take over as the head coach of the Socceroos following Graham Arnold's unexpected resignation. The decision comes as Football Australia seeks to quickly fill the managerial position ahead of crucial World Cup qualifiers. Popović, who has a rich history as a player and coach, is expected to be officially announced soon, with discussions already underway regarding his coaching staff. His appointment marks a significant moment as he becomes the first member of Australia's 'golden generation' to lead the national team. Having recently returned to Australia after coaching in Europe, Popović's experience includes leading teams to notable successes, such as winning the A-League Men premiership and the Asian Champions League. His defensive coaching style is anticipated to maintain the solid foundation established by Arnold, which has seen the team perform well in the current qualification phase. The upcoming matches against China and Japan are critical, especially after Arnold's tenure ended with disappointing results. Popović's coaching career began in 2008, and he has held various positions, including assistant roles and head coach at several clubs. His most recent role was with Melbourne Victory, where he achieved an Australia Cup victory. The urgency of his appointment is underscored by the approaching deadline for squad submissions for the qualifiers, making it essential for him to quickly integrate into the role. As the Socceroos prepare for the 2026 World Cup campaign, Popović's leadership will be crucial in navigating the challenges ahead. His familiarity with the national team and previous playing experience will likely contribute to a smooth transition as he aims to guide Australia to success on the international stage.