Socceroos coach Graham Arnold has outlined why he believes the Rabbitohs are struggling in the NRL this season – and sacked coach Jason Demetriou must take much of the blame.
The 63-year-old Arnold, who famously guided Australia to the round of 16 at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, has built his enviable reputation on hard work and the fact that his national teams are always united.
Friendship is key, a characteristic Arnold doesn’t see in spades in South Sydney.
“When you watch Souths play they don’t look invested. They are disjointed and not coordinated. In my opinion, the South don’t all play as one and that could be cultural,” Arnold said News Corp.
“They are not on the same page and that will be the challenge for the new Rabbitohs coach: making sure there is communication with the players.
Socceroos boss Graham Arnold has outlined why he believes the Rabbitohs are struggling in the NRL this season – and sacked coach Jason Demetriou must take a large share of the blame.
Arnold stated that South Sydney ‘looks disjointed and out of alignment’ after (pictured, coach Jason Demetriou) over the past three seasons
Arnold believes Wayne Bennett’s renowned managerial skills are exactly what the Rabbitohs need as the super coach (pictured) considers a return to the club
Premiership favorites in the eyes of many footy fans before the first round, the Rabbitohs have won just once this season (pictured, after a try against the Panthers on Thursday)
“It’s about human management, camaraderie, brotherhood, family, getting it done, all pulling in the same direction, discipline, hard work, being on time.”
Arnold pointed out to the Panthers what the Rabbitohs should aim for.
Ivan Cleary’s all-conquering side have been battered by the salary cap in recent years, but their ‘next man up’ mentality has them in line for a fourth successive premiership in 2024.
Arnold also stated that he ‘loves the Rabbitohs’ and would like to do some work for the embattled NRL club if approached.
He previously worked with the likes of Sea Eagles great Jamie Lyon and Wests Tigers legend Benji Marshall at the height of their careers when it came to goal kicks.
Meanwhile, Wayne Bennett is consolidating his position as South Sydney head coach in 2025, with reports the ‘interested’ Supercoach will soon sign a three-year contract.
In his previous spell at the club, Bennett guided the Rabbitohs to the grand final in 2021 and two preliminary finals.
He also had much-maligned stars Latrell Mitchell and Cody Walker firing on all cylinders.