Former Crystal Palace defender Tony Popovic has been appointed head coach of Australia through to the end of the 2026 World Cup.
Popovic, 51, replaces former incumbent Greg Arnold, who resigned last week after six years in charge.
“This is undoubtedly a very proud moment for myself and my family,” said Popovic. “To be entrusted with guiding our national team is a privilege that I do not take lightly.
“I want to express my sincere gratitude to Football Australia for their confidence in my abilities. Their trust motivates me to give my absolute best in this role.”
He added: “Looking ahead, I have great faith and confidence in our ability to grow as a team. Together, we will work tirelessly to improve, evolve, and continue Australia’s success on the international stage. I believe we have the talent and determination to make our nation proud.”
Arnold, 61, stepped down having overseen a disappointing start to the Socceroos’ World Cup qualification in the Asia zone.
He said a statement: “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.”
Australia are winless from their first two games of the third stage of qualifiers following a surprise defeat to Bahrain on home soil and a goalless draw away at Indonesia.
Popovic takes up the role after a three-year spell in charge of A-League side Melbourne Victory.
He decided against renewing his contract with the club after defeat in the A-League Men grand final to Central Coast.
Prior to his time at Melbourne, he won the Asian Champions League with the Western Sydney Wanderers in 2014.
Popovic played 141 times across a five-year stay at Crystal Palace and returned to the south London side as assistant coach to Dougie Freedman and Ian Holloway in 2011.
His first game in charge as Socceroos head coach will be against China in the third round of World Cup qualifiers, beginning on October 10.
(Mark Metcalfe/Getty Images for Football Australia)
