By Amaechi Agbo
Iraq have confirmed the extension of Australian coach Graham Arnold’s contract, keeping him in charge of the national team until 2027.
The Iraqi Football Association (IFA) announced the decision on Monday at a press conference attended by the 63-year-old coach, ending weeks of uncertainty over his future.
Under the new agreement, Arnold will lead Iraq through the Gulf Cup in Saudi Arabia in September and the Asian Cup early next year.
Arnold revealed that the IFA had offered him a four-year extension, but he opted instead for a six-month renewal.
“I have renewed my contract for six months, and this decision is in my best interest and in the best interest of the Iraq national team, although the association offered me a four-year extension,” Arnold said, according to the Iraqi News Agency.
The Australian coach guided Iraq to their first World Cup appearance in 40 years, securing qualification for the tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
However, their return to the global stage ended in disappointment as Iraq suffered defeats in all three of their Group I matches against Norway, France and Senegal, resulting in an early exit from the competition.
Arnold will now have an opportunity to rebuild the team and prepare Iraq for their upcoming regional and continental challenges.
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