New Contract Until 2027
The Iraqi Football Association announced on Monday that Australian coach Graham Arnold has signed a new contract with the Iraqi national team until 2027. At the press conference, Arnold, 63, confirmed he will continue leading the squad through the Gulf Cup in Saudi Arabia in September and the Asian Cup early next year.
Confirmation of Continuity
Arnold said, "I have renewed my contract for six months, and this decision is in the best interest of the Iraqi national team, although the association offered me a four-year extension." He guided Iraq to the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico, ending a 40-year absence. Iraq exited the group stage after losing all three group matches against Norway, France and Senegal.
Arnold’s Achievements
This extension is a key step to ensure stability of the coaching setup before the major upcoming competitions, with expectations that Arnold will continue building on the progress he has made with the national team over recent years.
