Iraq FA chief says federation open to renewing contract with Graham Arnold

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraq Football Association President Yonus Mahmud has dismissed reports that Australian head coach Graham Arnold is set to leave his post, saying the federation is "widely open" to renewing his contract. In remarks to the official Iraqi News Agency, Mahmud said Arnold is expected to remain in charge of the national team through the 2027 Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia and the Gulf Cup. Mahmud said negotiations with Arnold and his technical staff have reached an advanced stage and are close to being finalized. He added that the agreement covers the financial terms for the head coach and his assistants, as well as administrative arrangements with the Iraqi Football Association. The federation chief said he was surprised by rumors of Arnold's departure, stressing that the coach remains in his position and continues to enjoy the federation's confidence.