Central Coast Mariners have announced that head coach Graham Arnold has departed for Japan.
The 50-year old has signed a two-year deal with J.League club Vegalta Sendai, travelling to Japan on Thursday, and will start his new role in January.
Arnold, who led the Mariners to the 2012/13 A-League championship, said he was grateful to the Gosford club but was looking forward to a new chapter in his coaching career.
"Together at the Mariners we have achieved a lot over the past three seasons," Arnold said. "But just like players I have the determination and drive to coach at the highest level I possibly can.
"Naturally, this opportunity with Vegalta Sendai excites me. The J-League is an amazing competition with quality players, highly professional clubs, and passionate fans. I hope to help Sendai achieve success, and help pave the way for more Australian coaches to work in top leagues around the world."
The Mariners, currently fifth on the A-League table, have appointed Arnold's former assistant Jim Moss as the new head coach at the Bluetongue Stadium.
