The return of the Iraqi national team coach, Australian Graham Arnold, to the capital Baghdad was unexpectedly delayed, following the completion of his mission in the United Arab Emirates, due to recent security developments that led to the suspension of several flights and the closure of parts of the airspace in the region.

Arnold had been in Dubai for the past four days as part of a special technical program to monitor Iraqi players professional in the UAE league, in preparation for the intense preparations to play the global playoff qualifying for the 2026 World Cup.

According to sources close to the Iraqi Football Association, the coach was planning to return to Baghdad on Sunday, but the restrictions imposed on air travel prevented the flight from taking place on time, forcing him to stay in Dubai awaiting the reopening of the airspace and the stabilization of air traffic, amid ongoing coordination from the association to secure his return as soon as possible.

During his visit to the UAE, Arnold made sure to attend the match between Al Dhafra and Ittihad Kalba from the stands, where he particularly focused on evaluating the level of midfielder Ibrahim Bayesh, both technically and physically.

Information indicated that the coach was looking forward to seeing a higher technical output from the player, but he left with a positive impression regarding his physical readiness, especially after his gradual return to the competitive atmosphere. The technical staff believes Bayesh needs some time to fully adapt to the UAE league environment and regain his usual rhythm, as he is new to the professional experience there.

On the other hand, Arnold closely followed the condition of striker Mohanad Ali “Mimi”, who was absent from his team Dabba Al-Fujairah's match against Al Nasr. It was found that the player's absence was a precautionary measure by his team's technical staff, without any serious injury.

Medical reports confirmed Mimi's full physical readiness, with expectations of his return to participate in his team's next match, which reassured the national team's technical staff, especially since the striker is considered one of the key offensive assets Iraq relies on in the crucial playoff match.

Mohanad Ali is regarded as one of the most important elements in the forward line, due to his international experience and high scoring sense, as well as his technical readiness compared to some of his colleagues in the same position.

Arnold is expected to announce the final list of the Iraqi national team at the beginning of March, in preparation for entering an external training camp in the United States of America, before heading to the city of Monterrey, Mexico, to play the global playoff.