Iraq move to extend Graham Arnold contract despite World Cup group-stage exit

Iraq are in talks to extend the contract of head coach Graham Arnold, despite the team losing all three of their matches at the 2026 World Cup.

A committee appointed by the Iraq Football Association and led by former national team striker Younis Mahmoud, alongside vice-presidents Sarmad Abdelilah and Mohammed Nasser, is holding negotiations with the Australian coach over a new deal.

The Iraq FA confirmed on its official Facebook page that discussions are taking place via video conference, with president’s adviser Ghaith Mehanna involved, as well as Arnold, his representative Tony Rallis, and national team interpreter Ali Abbas.

Both sides are attempting to narrow their differences and agree a framework that would keep the 61-year-old in charge of the national side.

Arnold, who was appointed Iraq coach in May 2025, is under contract until 31 July 2026, meaning a decision over his future is required in the coming days.

World Cup return ends in early exit

Iraq reached the 2026 World Cup under Arnold, securing only the second appearance at the tournament in the country’s history and the first in four decades.

However, they were drawn into a formidable group featuring France, Norway and Senegal and were eliminated in the group stage after three consecutive defeats.

The Lions of Mesopotamia finished their campaign without a point and conceded 12 goals across their three matches.

Their heaviest loss came in the final group game, a 5-0 defeat by Senegal, which was compounded by an early red card that left Iraq playing with 10 men for more than 75 minutes.

Balancing progress and results

Despite the disappointing results at the tournament itself, Iraq’s qualification after such a long absence has been viewed within the federation as a significant achievement under Arnold’s leadership.

The ongoing negotiations are focused on assessing that broader progress and determining whether the Australian is the right figure to oversee the next phase of the national team’s development.

The Iraq FA has not disclosed any details on contract length, financial terms or specific conditions being discussed, and has given no timetable for when a final decision will be announced.

For now, the talks led by Younis Mahmoud’s committee represent a clear indication that the federation is open to continuing with Arnold beyond the expiry of his current deal at the end of July.