Overview

• Graham Arnold has been officially appointed as the head coach of Iraq's national football team, replacing Jesus Casas after his dismissal in March.
• Iraq is currently third in Group B of AFC World Cup qualifiers, trailing South Korea and Jordan, with two pivotal matches remaining in early June.
• Arnold's first match in charge will be against group leaders South Korea in Basra on June 5, followed by a critical game against Jordan in Amman on June 10.
• The Australian coach brings extensive experience, having led the Socceroos to the 2022 World Cup round-of-16 and achieving a record-breaking qualifying campaign.
• Arnold's coaching staff includes former Socceroos assistant René Meulensteen, ex-Newcastle Jets coach Robbie Stanton, and former Australian goalkeeper Zeljko Kalac.