Abdulghani Shahid: Some names within the team are the reason for my departure.. and I apologized after the loss

The coach of Al-Najaf Club, Abdulghani Shahid, expressed his great disappointment after the loss his team suffered against Al-Quwa Al-Jawiya with a score of three goals to none, in the 29th round of the Iraqi Stars League, confirming that he took full responsibility for the result, but at the same time revealed the existence of internal problems that directly affected the stability of the team, prompting him to apologize for continuing the journey with the club.

Shahid explained that some big names within the team were not committed to the required professional behavior, creating a negative atmosphere that reflected on the results, pointing out that he tried hard to maintain the unity of the group, but he reached a complete conviction that his continuation would not be fruitful under these circumstances.

He said: "I take responsibility for the loss against Al-Quwa Al-Jawiya, and I apologize to the fans of Al-Najaf for this performance. I gave everything I had since taking over the task, but I reached the conviction that the current phase requires a clear decision, so I apologized for continuing the task."

He continued: "The loss was not only due to the performance on the field, but there were other factors that affected the group's focus, the most prominent of which was the presence of some names within the team who do not help create a healthy work environment. I tried hard to control the atmosphere, but things did not go as required."

He added: "When you do not find sufficient response from some influential elements, it becomes difficult to achieve the required harmony, and this was evident during the recent matches. The team did not show its true form, even though we had the capabilities."

He concluded: "I appreciate the management of Al-Najaf Club very much, and I thank them for the trust and support I received from the beginning. The decision I made was difficult, but it came in respect of the club's history and its fans, and because I do not wish to continue under these circumstances."

He added: "I know that the management wants me to stay, and they informed me that they do not accept my apology yet, but it is not about insisting on leaving as much as it is about my desire to maintain the image of Al-Najaf and respect my professional experience."