Following Ange Postecoglou's exit, it was thought Popovic - along with the Graham Arnold - were seen as the most likely Australian candidates for the job.
And while Bert van Marwijk was chosen to take Australia to the 2018 FIFA World Cup, with Arnold his long-term replacement, former Socceroos defender Popovic has revealed a conversation between him and Football Federation Australia never took place.
"I didn't get a call," Popovic told Fox Sports' A-League Hour.
"For whatever reason, I didn't get a call for that job. You never say no to the Socceroos, or at least a conversation, because there's no higher honour than that."
"I'm sure Graham, when he gets his chance after the World Cup, will do a fantastic job and do it with pride as Ange did as well.
Meanwhile, Popovic has ruled out a move to the vacant Sydney FC role but said he is open to an A-League return.
"No, I haven't put my name in and that's not to say Sydney even want me as a coach," Popovic told Fox Sports' A-League Hour.
"But from a personal point of view, that won't happen.
"I wouldn't rule out the A-League now and I wouldn't rule out overseas."
The 44-year-old has been linked with a stunning return to the Wanderers, with his successor Josep Gombau coming under fire after an inconsistent A-League campaign.
