Watch FIFA World Cup 2026™ LIVE, FREE and EXCLUSIVE

Popovic reveals he didn't get a call for Socceroos job

Former Western Sydney Wanderers boss Tony Popovic has revealed he didn't even receive a call about the vacant Socceroos coaching job.

Following Ange Postecoglou's exit, it was thought Popovic - along with the Graham Arnold - were seen as the most likely Australian candidates for the job.

And while Bert van Marwijk was chosen to take Australia to the 2018 FIFA World Cup, with Arnold his long-term replacement, former Socceroos defender Popovic has revealed a conversation between him and Football Federation Australia never took place.

"I didn't get a call," Popovic told Fox Sports' A-League Hour.

"For whatever reason, I didn't get a call for that job. You never say no to the Socceroos, or at least a conversation, because there's no higher honour than that."

"I'm sure Graham, when he gets his chance after the World Cup, will do a fantastic job and do it with pride as Ange did as well.

Meanwhile, Popovic has ruled out a move to the vacant Sydney FC role but said he is open to an A-League return.

"No, I haven't put my name in and that's not to say Sydney even want me as a coach," Popovic told Fox Sports' A-League Hour.

"But from a personal point of view, that won't happen.

"I wouldn't rule out the A-League now and I wouldn't rule out overseas."

The 44-year-old has been linked with a stunning return to the Wanderers, with his successor Josep Gombau coming under fire after an inconsistent A-League campaign.


Watch the FIFA World Cup 2026™, Tour de France, Tour de France Femmes, Giro d’Italia, Vuelta a España, Dakar Rally, World Athletics / ISU Championships (and more) via SBS On Demand – your free live streaming and catch-up service. Read more about Sport

Have a story or comment? Contact Us


2 min read

Published

Source: SBS The World Game


Share this with family and friends


SBS Sport Newsletter

Sign up now for the latest sport news from Australia and around the world direct to your inbox.

By subscribing, you agree to SBS’s terms of service and privacy policy including receiving email updates from SBS.

Follow SBS Sport

Download our apps

Listen to our podcasts

Get the latest with our sport podcasts on your favourite podcast apps.

Watch on SBS Sport

Sport News

News from around the sporting world

Watch now