Tony Popovic has signed a two-year contract as the new Head Coach of the Socceroos, stepping in after the unexpected resignation of Graham Arnold.
Football Australia announced Popovic’s appointment on Monday, September 23. The decision came after Arnold’s exit, following a series of disappointing performances during the current World Cup qualification campaign, which left the Socceroos in a precarious position.
Popovic has been without a coaching role since departing from Melbourne Victory after their A-League Men’s grand final defeat to the Central Coast Mariners.
Popovic has also spent time at second-tier Greek outfit Xanthi FC – who were owned by Greek Australian alleged fraudster Bill Papas – and, before that, Turkish Süper Lig club Karabükspor, where his contract was terminated after just nine games.
He has just over a week to finalise a squad of players for October’s matches, as he is charged with ensuring Australia continues its run of qualifying for the World Cup, which stretches back to 2006.
Football Australia Chief Executive James Johnson said in a press conference the organisation is “extremely excited” about Popovic’s appointment.
“We wanted to ensure the team, the players, the staff, the organisation and the country have certainty and clarity going into the next window,” Johnson said.
“We are extremely excited for the appointment of Popa… we have every bit of confidence Tony will succeed.”
Popovic described it as “a dream come true” and rejected suggestions it was not a good time to come in as coach.
“It’s the best time to take it (the role),” he said.
Source: ABC.
