Graham Arnold has resigned as Australia coach in a decision he said was "best for the nation" following the Socceroos' poor start to Asia's third phase of World Cup qualifying.

Graham Arnold has quit as coach of the Socceroos, Football Australia said Friday, following a poor start to the third round of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup.

Graham Arnold has stepped down as head coach of the Australian men’s national team after six years in charge. Football Australia confirmed the news on Friday, stating Arnold, 61, informed the organisation earlier this week of his decision.

Australia head coach Graham Arnold (C) shows his frustration during the goalless draw against Indonesia in a World Cup qualifier

Australia football head coach Graham Arnold said his side were "extremely disappointed" after their goal-drought continued into a second World Cup qualifier, this time leading to a 0-0 draw with Indonesia in Jakarta.

Graham Arnold is set to step down as Socceroos manager before Australia's next World Cup qualifier in October.

Graham Arnold has quit as coach of the Socceroos, Football Australia said Friday, following a poor start to the third round of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup.Arnold departs after a shock 1-0 home defeat to Bahrain earlier this month then a goalless draw at Indonesia left Australia with one point from their opening two matches in the decisive third round of qualifying for 2026.

Football Australia Chief Executive James Johnson addressed Graham Arnold’s decision to resign as Socceroos head coach in a press conference on Friday afternoon.