Iraq look to former Australia coach Arnold to boost 2026 World Cup hopes

Graham Arnold, former Australia manager, has been appointed head coach of Iraq ahead of their next World Cup qualifiers against South Korea and Jordan. The 61-year-old made the announcement on social media with a photo of him being welcomed in Baghdad, replacing Jesus Casas after Iraq’s loss to Palestine earlier this year. Arnold, who led Australia to knockout rounds in 2022, returns as Iraq seeks qualification for their first World Cup since 1986.