Arnold advised Football Australia earlier this week of his decision to resign from the role, which was accepted by the Board, with the governing body focused on appointing a new coach ahead of the second window of AFC round three World Cup qualifiers in October.

Arnold has had the reins of the Socceroos, since August 2018, marking his second stint with the team after a brief interim role in 2006 – 2007.  

"Leading the Socceroos has been the pinnacle of my career and a true honour," Arnold said. "I'm incredibly proud of our achievements – from breaking records to nurturing new talent and making history on the global stage. After careful consideration, I believe it's time for fresh leadership to guide the team forward. 

"I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the players, my staff, Football Australia, and our passionate fans for their unwavering support. The Subway Socceroos have a bright future ahead, and I'm confident they will continue to excel.

 Arnold presided over a successful transition period for Australian national team, in which the Socceroos defied expectations by qualifying for the round of 16 at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, falling to eventual champion Argentina 2-1 in a tightly-contested match. 

Boasting a legion of young faces brought into the national team set-up by Arnold, the Socceroos had made an unbeaten start over the first two rounds of 2026 World Cup qualifying, only to suffer a shock home loss to Bahrain, then a surprise draw with Indonesia to begin the third and decisive phase. 

“I’ve given 40 years of service to Australian football, with the last six years in my role as Socceroos’ head coach," Arnold said. “I said after our game against Indonesia that I had some decisions to make, and after deep reflection, my gut has told me it’s time for change, both for myself and the program. 

“I’ve made the decision to resign based upon what’s best for the nation, the players and Football Australia. I’ve given absolutely everything I can to the role, and I am immensely proud of what has been achieved during my tenure.  

“To witness the personal and football growth of this playing group, the identity and brotherhood which has been formed and now revered by others, and the way this team galvanised a country during its record-breaking feats in Qatar will forever be highlights.

“I would like to sincerely thank everyone, particularly the Australian football family, who has been part of this journey over the past six years and wish this incredible team and support staff nothing but success for this FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign."

Graham Arnold's Socceroos tenure: the key stats:

• FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022: Arnold guided the Socceroos to their most successful FIFA World Cup performance in 2022, where they reached the Round of 16 for only the second time in history. The team secured two group stage victories, including a historic win against Denmark, where its impressive tournament saw it finish in 11th place.
• FIFA World Cup Qualification: He led Australia through a challenging qualification campaign for the 2022 FIFA World Cup, culminating in a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Peru in the intercontinental playoff that secured Australia's place in Qatar. Notably, during this campaign, Arnold's squad set a record by winning 11 consecutive matches in World Cup qualifying, a feat unmatched in FIFA history.
• Youth Development: In addition to his role with the senior team, over an extended period, Arnold oversaw the U-23 program, leading the Olyroos to the Tokyo 202 Olympics.
• Coaching Record: As of September 2024, Arnold holds one of the best coaching records in Socceroos history, with a win rate exceeding 61 percent during his current tenure. He is recognised for his ability to instil a strong team culture and develop players' potential.
• ⁠Most ‘A’ Internationals as Socceroos’ coach.
• Most ‘A’ Internationals won as Socceroos’ coach.
• The first Australian-born head coach to win multiple matches at a FIFA World Cup.
• ⁠Led Australia to its highest-ever finish at a FIFA World Cup (Qatar 2022).