Arnold to stay as Iraq coach, but only for six months

"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 ​was quoted as saying by the Iraqi News Agency.

Arnold guided Iraq to this ​year's ​World Cup ​in the United States, ‌Canada and Mexico, ending a 40-year absence from the tournament. However, Iraq exited at the group stage after losing all of ​their Group I matches against Norway, ​France and Senegal.

The 63-year-old was Australia's head coach from 2018-2024, leading the team to the knock-out stages of the Qatar World Cup. He also held the post on an interim basis in 2006-07.

Combined he led Australia for 72 matches. He has overseen Iraq for 19 so far.