Mile Jedinak, former Socceroos captain, has officially joined Tony Popovic's coaching staff as Australia prepares for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. His appointment was announced alongside details of the team's upcoming warm-up matches.
Coaching Role
Jedinak, who represented Australia 79 times and captained the team for 36 matches between 2008 and 2018, steps into the role of third assistant. He joins fellow ex-Socceroos Hayden Foxe and Paul Okon on the coaching team. The 41-year-old previously served as an assistant coach under Ange Postecoglou at Tottenham and Nottingham Forest.
Jedinak commented on his return, stating, "It's an honour to return to the Socceroos in an official capacity. I'm looking forward to working with Tony and his coaching staff." Head coach Popovic expressed his pleasure, adding, "It's fantastic to have another former Socceroo involved in the coaching staff."
World Cup Preparations
The Socceroos have been drawn into Group D for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where they will face co-hosts USA, Paraguay, and one of Turkey, Romania, Slovakia, or Kosovo.
Before the tournament, Australia will host a four-team home series in March. The world number 27 Australian side is scheduled to play two matches against the visiting nations. Curacao (ranked 81st), five-time African champions Cameroon (ranked 45th), and China (ranked 93rd) are confirmed to participate in these warm-up fixtures.