Iraq rule out move for former Morocco coach Walid Regragui

Former Morocco head coach Walid Regragui is not in negotiations to take charge of the Iraqi national team despite recent speculation linking him with the role ahead of the 2027 AFC Asian Cup.

Reports went rife that the Iraqi FA was considering the Moroccan tactician as a potential successor to Australian coach Graham Arnold, with Regragui’s remarkable achievements on the international stage making him an attractive candidate for the position.

Regragui’s reputation soared after guiding Morocco to a historic fourth-place finish at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, where the Atlas Lions became the first African and Arab nation to reach the semi-finals of the tournament. That unprecedented run elevated the Moroccan coach into one of the most sought-after managers in international football.

However, latest reports suggest there have been no discussions between Regragui and the Iraqi FA over coaching job.

While Regragui was considered among the federation’s contingency options, he was never the primary target. The former Morocco boss was reportedly viewed as an alternative should negotiations with current coach Graham Arnold fail to produce a contract extension.

Instead, Iraqi football authorities have successfully moved closer to retaining Arnold, reaching an agreement in principle with the Australian manager to continue leading the Lions of Mesopotamia.

To secure the renewal, the Iraqi Football Association reportedly established a three-member negotiating committee led by federation president Younis Mahmoud alongside vice-presidents Sarmad Abdul-Ilah and Mohammed Nasser. The committee was tasked with finalising terms with the former Australia national team coach following Iraq’s recent progress under his leadership.

According to reports, the new agreement will run for an initial six-month period beginning on August 1 and ending on February 20 next year. The contract includes an option for renewal based on performance and mutual agreement.

Arnold is expected to earn a monthly salary of $75,000 under the terms of the proposed extension, reflecting the federation’s confidence in his ability to guide Iraq into the next phase of its development and prepare the team for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup.

The latest developments effectively end speculation surrounding Regragui’s possible move to Baghdad, with the highly regarded Moroccan coach remaining unattached for the time being following his departure from the Atlas Lions.

While Regragui’s name continues to be linked with several national teams and club sides due to his impressive coaching credentials, Iraq appears set to continue its project under Arnold as the federation focuses on stability and long-term preparation for upcoming continental challenges.

For now, the Lions of Mesopotamia are expected to move forward with the Australian tactician at the helm, while Regragui awaits the next opportunity in what remains one of the most closely watched managerial careers in African football.