Arbil Faces Dilemma After Ibrahim Baish Transfer Announcement

Erbil FC has placed itself in a difficult situation following the completion of the transfer of Iraqi national team player Ibrahim Baish, which cost the "Emperor" a staggering 1.3 billion Iraqi dinars.

The Baish transfer is considered the largest deal to date in the history of domestic player transfers in the Iraqi Premier League.

Arbil's management is looking to continue its significant spending by finalizing the contract with defender Akam Hashim, in a deal that sources say has reached 1.55 billion dinars, exceeding what was paid for Baish.

According to sources within the club, the announcement of the Baysh deal has reopened a file that had been closed for years.

"More than 10 players who previously represented Arbil have returned to demand their overdue financial entitlements. They felt wronged after the club previously justified the delays by citing financial difficulties, yet today it is making signings for substantial amounts," according to sources.

The situation has escalated beyond mere demands. Sources indicate that several first-team players have entered a strike and are refusing to return to training until they receive their overdue payments.

This situation has directly impacted the team's preparations for the new season, resulting in the cancellation of the planned training camp in Tunisia.

Arbil's management is worried that the substantial contract signed by Baish may lead to a rift within the locker room, especially with the impending completion of the Akam Hashim deal, which could further inflate salary ceilings.

Despite the current crisis, Arbil delivered a strong performance in the 2025-2026 season, finishing the league in third place after topping the standings in the first half. They also succeeded in securing a spot to participate in the Gulf Champions League.