Graham Arnold will lead the football loose through the end of the 2026 World Cup campaign, capping his impressive turn of fortunes with a new long-term deal.
Ten months after being on the brink of a sack during a stuttering qualifying campaign, Arnold’s brilliant effort in Qatar gave him the opportunity to become the first man to lead football loose in back-to-back World Cups.
Given the World Cup results, it was up to Arnold to decide whether the 59-year-old would continue to coach, and there was little doubt that the FA would offer him a new contract.
“I love Australia and I love Australian football,” Arnold said in a statement.
“The desire to continue in this role has never been higher and I know I can contribute more to the football program and Australian football as I have done in Qatar and want to bring more smiles to the fans. increase.
“Clean sheets fueled by a burning ambition to provide more opportunities for our leading emerging and established talent while challenging for major titles starting with the AFC Asian Cup in Qatar next year. We look forward to the next four years.”
Arnold, who started in the role after the 2018 World Cup, survived by the skin of his teeth last March after the Socceroos finished third in their group and had to qualify for the playoffs.
But while his support elsewhere wavered, Arnold did not lose the support of his players, and after qualifying, and then a World Cup campaign, it solidified.
In Qatar, the Socceroos have won two World Cups for the first time and advanced to the last 16 for the second time alone.
FA President Chris Nikow said in a statement: “It is extraordinary what Graham and the entire team have achieved in the most difficult circumstances of the last FIFA World Cup, and we are delighted to have secured his services for another four years. I am happy.
Arnold is tasked with taking over the next generation of Thackers, including rising stars such as Garan Quor and Harry Suter.
