Younis Mahmoud Makes an Important Decision Before the World Cup

Younis Mahmoud faces his first test as the President of the Iraqi Football Federation after succeeding Adnan Darjal, with his eyes set on a matter that cannot be delayed. His current goal is clear: to establish technical stability for the Lions of Mesopotamia before the start of the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.

The new federation elected by the general assembly came with the slogan of correcting the mistakes of the previous phase. Priorities include restructuring the base by focusing on youth categories and enhancing the quality of the Iraqi Stars League to make it more competitive and attractive.

Sources within the Iraqi federation revealed that Younis Mahmoud has begun the process of obtaining a visa to enter the United States. He conducted interviews at the American embassy in Baghdad because he insists on accompanying the team during the World Cup competitions and supporting the players and the technical staff from the stands.

The countdown has begun for the federation president. The urgent task is to extend the contract of Australian coach Graham Arnold before the World Cup whistle blows. Younis Mahmoud wants to close this file early and present a new officially signed contract, as keeping Arnold is a top priority for him.

The current coach's contract expires on July 30th. The Iraqi federation is ready to provide full guarantees to Arnold to stay, with the most prominent being Younis Mahmoud's confirmation that his position is secure with the team regardless of Iraq's results in the tough group that includes France, Norway, and Senegal.

According to sources, the federation currently has no alternative scenario. Arnold is the first choice without competition. If renewal falters for any reason, the federation will be forced to enter a race to find a new coach in the coming months, but all indications suggest that the Australian coach is emotionally attached to the team and players and wants to complete the project.

Younis Mahmoud understands that technical stability is the key to Iraq's success in the World Cup. Renewing Arnold's contract before the tournament means that the Lions of Mesopotamia will enter the tournament with a confident technical staff and a clear plan, away from the distraction of changing coaches. The task is difficult but it defines the features of the next phase for Iraqi football.