Mariners' Arnold confirms Sendai move Central Coast Mariners have confirmed their A-League winning coach Graham Arnold has joined J-League club Vegalta Sendai on a two-season contract. Arnold finalised the deal in Japan on Thursday. He will commence working with the club in January, replacing outgoing manager Makoto Teguramori who has been appointed national under 23 coach. Arnold said that the chance to coach in one of Asia's top leagues, and at a club with grand ambitions, was an opportunity too good to turn down. "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. While enthusiastic about his new role, Arnold admitted he'd miss his time on the Central Coast. "There is an amazing culture at the club, and I know that the players, staff and management will continue working hard as they aim to achieve the goals that have been set not only for this year, but for the years to come," he said. Arnold gave his backing to the Mariners' new coach, Phil Moss, his assistant there since 2010. "Phil deserves his opportunity to be a head coach in the A-League," Arnold said. He is a dedicated professional who understands the culture of the club, has the trust of the players, and has the desire to make the very most of this opportunity. I ask the fans to give Phil and the club their full support.