The former international Tony Popovic was appointed the new coach of the national team Australiaa position that has been vacant since last week, when he tendered his resignation Graham Arnold.
The former defender, 51, has a mission to redirect the progress of ‘Socceroos’ in the qualification phase of the World Cup Asia after defeats against Bahrain and Indonesia caused the departure of Arnold.
According to the Australian Federation, “Popovica highly respected figure in Australian football, brings impressive experience in both national and international football” and highlights his achievements leading to Western Sydney Wanderers in the title of Asian Champions Leaguein 2014, and winning two A-League titles.
In fact, Anther Isaachead of the organization, assured that his appointment “represents a new and exciting chapter for the Socceroos at a critical stage”, because as a player, Tony he represented his country “with pride and distinction in all age categories.”
“As a coach, he has consistently demonstrated his ability to build winning teams through his attention to detail, meticulous planning and his ability to harmonize a collective strategy and, as graham“We know he will be welcomed by all our players, staff and fans,” he said.
The executive director, James Johnsonhighlighted the “demonstrated leadership of Tony and his strategic football acumen, along with his deep knowledge of Australian football, the players and what it means to be a Socceroo” as well as considering “his international experience, particularly in Asya, both as a player and coach, further strengthens his ability to navigate the global football landscape and drive Australia’s success on the world stage.”
“We have moved quickly to secure the best possible candidate for this important position. Our swift action reflects our commitment to maintaining the momentum and success of the Socceroos program, especially as we enter the crucial Third Round of the Asian Qualifiers,” pointed out. Johnson.
Popovicinternational in 58 matches and winner of the World Cup in Germany 2006, acknowledged, apart from feeling honored, that “it is a position that carries great responsibility” and that “it is a moment of great pride” for him and his family
“Being entrusted with the role of leading our national team is a privilege I do not take for granted. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Football Australia for their confidence in my abilities. Their confidence motivates me to give my best in this position. I fully understand the weight of responsibility and the high expectations that come with this position,” he commented.
“Looking to the future, I have great faith and confidence in our ability to develop as a team. Together, we will work tirelessly to improve, develop and continue Australia’s success on the international stage. I believe we have the talent and determination to make Australia proud of our country,” he added.
Popovicwho as a player has played with other teams for Sanfrecce Hiroshima, Crystal Palace and Al-Arabi and as a coach has coached Western Sydney, Perth Glory, Xanthi and Melbourne Victory, will have his first game test in few days with matches against China, in Adelaide, and against Japan, in Saitama, two key rivalries after the Socceroos’ poor start to the stage.
Source: La Verdad
I’m Rose Herman and I work as an author for Today Times Live. My expertise lies in writing about sports, a passion of mine that has been with me since childhood. As part of my job, I provide comprehensive coverage on everything from football to tennis to golf.
