Postecoglou resigns as Australia manager despite World Cup berth

Ange Postecoglou won't be on the touchline next summer in Russia after announcing his resignation as Australia manager.

Football Federation Australia (FFA) was willing to discuss a contract extension following the country's triumph over Honduras on Nov. 15.

However, a statement on FFA's website revealed that Postecoglou met with officials Tuesday to announce his decision to leave after four years in charge.

"This has been a very tough decision for me," Postecoglou said. "It has been a privilege for me to coach my country’s national team, to lead them at the 2014 World Cup, to win the Asian Cup in 2015 and now to have qualified for the World Cup next year. I said we would do it and we have done it.

"All this however, has taken a toll on me both personally and professionally. I have invested all I can knowing how important a period it was for Australian football. It is with a heavy heart that I must now end the journey."

Chief executive David Gallop said the country will not rush the process of finding Postecoglou's successor.