Graham Arnold's New Contract Details

Australian Graham Arnold will remain in his position as head coach of the "Lions of Mesopotamia" after the Iraqi Football Association successfully reached an agreement to extend his contract for seven months, despite the coach's request for a full-year extension.

According to reports, the Union has finalized matters with Arnold after intensive negotiations over the past few days, culminating in a compromise that satisfies both parties.

Arnold successfully led Iraq to qualify for the 2026 World Cup scheduled in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, ending a 40-year absence since their last participation in the 1986 World Cup.

The Australian coach has requested a one-year contract starting on August 1, continuing until July 31, 2027, along with a 50% salary increase to reach $110,000 instead of $75,000.

A new contract clause stipulates a penalty of $220,000 if terminated after the Asian Cup.

The parties have also agreed on a future clause, stipulating that if the federation wishes to renew the contract after the end of the 2027 Asian Cup, the new contract will commence on March 1 of the following year and will extend until the conclusion of the World Cup 2030 qualifiers or finals, depending on the qualification outcome.

Arnold is expected to arrive in Baghdad in the coming days to officially announce all the details of his renewal.

Graham Arnold has taken over as head coach of the Iraqi national team during the crucial Asian qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup, succeeding Spanish coach Jesus Casas. He succeeded in his mission to bring Iraq back to the World Cup after a long absence.