Football Australia can confirm the following changes within the current Subway Socceroos’ coaching staff.
Assistant Coaches René Meulensteen and Luke Wilkshire, Goalkeeper Coach John Crawley, Head of Sports Science Fabian Ehrmann, Senior Technical Analyst Adam Barbera and Advisor Michael Zappone will no longer be involved with the senior men’s national team.
Ehrmann has been part of the Socceroos’ program for the past decade including the victorious AFC Asian Cup 2015™ campaign and the historic 2022 FIFA World Cup™ in Qatar. In recent times, Ehrmann’s remit has extended to include leading on Sports Science for all national teams.
Crawley has been a mainstay of the Socceroos’ coaching staff since joining on a permanent basis in 2019, while Barbera joined the program in 2020, providing analyst support to not only the Socceroos but all men’s national teams.
Wilkshire joined the Subway Socceroos’ program in a full-time capacity in mid-2024 following various stints with the senior men’s national team and the Subway Young Socceroos.
Meulensteen served as part of the Subway Socceroos’ coaching staff for a six-year span, which included two AFC Asian Cup™ campaigns (2019, 2024) and the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™.
On departing Football Australia, Meulensteen said: "As I conclude my journey with the Football Australia, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for the camaraderie, passion, and dedication that I have experienced over these past six years.
“I’d like to thank Arnie, the staff and players for making this journey such a special one. Together, we have fostered growth and innovation in our beautiful game. While I am excited for the next chapter, I will always cherish the memories and friendships made here.
“Keep pushing the boundaries of excellence, your commitment to football is truly inspiring."
Football Australia would like to thank all six gentlemen for their significant and committed contribution to the Subway Socceroos’ program.