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Socceroos coach Graham Arnold reveals his plans when his contract expires at the end of the World Cup – and a job as manager of a Major League Soccer team in the US could be at stake
Socceroos boss Graham Arnold has revealed he is open to offers after the World Cup in Qatar – and US Major League Soccer is a real option.
Arnold, 59, has been in charge of the national team for the past four and a half years – and he will be a free agent once Australia is out in the Middle East.
Football Australia has not indicated that they will extend Arnold’s deal, so coaching abroad looms as his next sporting adventure.
In December, Arnold confirmed that he will take some time off to think about his future.
Socceroos coach Graham Arnold has revealed he’s open to offers after the World Cup in Qatar – and US Major League Soccer is a real option
The MLS is growing in popularity and the league will expand to 29 teams by 2023 (photo, action from a derby match between Los Angeles FC and Los Angeles Galaxy)
“I haven’t decided anything yet,” Arnold said. ‘I don’t feel unwanted, my contract has ended. I’m not be tapped on the shoulder.’
The two-time A-League champion with Sydney FC and the Central Coast Mariners would love to test himself abroad again.
In 2014, Arnold was at the helm of J-League side Vegalta Sendai, but was sacked after eight scoreless games.
As it stands, four clubs in the MLS are looking for new head coaches: Columbus Crew, New York City FC, Houston Dynamo and San Jose Earthquakes.
The league will also expand to 29 teams in 2023.
“I love watching the MLS,” Arnold told the… Sydney Morning Herald.
“I’m the type of person who needs a life in addition to football – I’m not one to sit at home and be obsessed with football.
‘I like going out and having a beer and catching up with friends, so lifestyle is important.’
Arnold also confirmed that he may start working with another country if the right deal can be struck.
The World Cup in Qatar kicks off on November 20, with the Socceroos’ first game three days later, when they face heavyweights France.