00:00Australia head coach Tony Popovic revealed he turned down a contract extension through the 2030 World Cup.
00:07Instead, he chose to sign a deal that runs only until the end of the 2027 AFC Asian Cup.
00:14Popovic said the decision was his own and gives Football Australia the freedom to choose a different direction afterward.
00:20The 53-year-old took charge in late 2024 and guided the Socceroos to a smooth qualification for the expanded
00:292026 World Cup.
00:31Australia reached the round of 32, where they were eliminated on penalties by Egypt.
00:37Popovic says he is excited about the next generation, with Australia expected to field another young squad at the Asian
00:44Cup.
00:44The Socceroos will face Tajikistan, Iraq, and Singapore in Group D of the tournament in Saudi Arabia.
00:53Popovic added that Australia should enter the Asian Cup with one goal, winning the title.
