David Wagner 'early favourite' for Australia job - reports

Graham Arnold resigned from his position earlier this week after a poor start to their 2026 World Cup qualifying that has seen them beaten 1-0 by Bahrain and a disappointing goalless draw against Indonesia.  

Sky Sports News are reporting that Wagner, who was sacked by the Canaries less than 24 hours after their 4-0 play-off defeat to Leeds, is the early favourite to succeed him with talks over the position set to take place. 

Wagner was interviewed for the South Korea job earlier in the summer before missing out on the vacancy to Hong Myung-bo. He was also mentioned as a possible contender to take over at the United States, but that job went to ex-Chelsea and Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino. 

Football Australia chief executive James Johnson is confident of a quick search for Arnold's successor, and has vowed to look global to uncover the best possible candidate. 

"We will look locally, but we also look globally," said Johnson. "We know the market, and we know who's in the market and who's available and who isn't available.

"That's what good planning does, and that's what good organisations with good football IP do. So I believe we're in a position that when we need to move quick, we can, and I think we will."

Arnold was in charge for six years after serving both as U23 and assistant coach to Guus Hiddink. 

Graham Arnold quit as Australia boss earlier this week. (Image: PA)"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," Arnold said in a statement released after his exit was confirmed.

"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."

The Socceroos are now searching for a permanent successor before their next World Cup qualifier at home to China on October 10.