Iraq head coach Arnold says football development must start from within

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraq national football team head coach Graham Arnold has said improving Iraqi football requires a comprehensive project, beginning with a stronger domestic league and well-established academies. The Australian coach stressed that the work must start internally rather than through external measures. Arnold said negotiations over a new contract are being handled by his representative and that he is currently on leave. According to a source at the Iraq Football Federation reported on July 3, Arnold is expected to arrive in Baghdad next week to sign a four-year deal valued at $1 million annually, with a clause allowing the federation to terminate the contract if performance targets are not met. Arnold took charge of Iraq in May 2025, replacing Spain's Jesús Casas, and led the team to its first World Cup appearance since 1986. Iraq exited the 2026 World Cup without a point after group-stage defeats to France, Norway and Senegal. The federation plans to retain the Australian coach to maintain continuity ahead of the next competitive cycle.