Iraq head coach Graham Arnold undecided on future contract beyond World Cup

The 62-year-old Australian coach, appointed to lead Iraq in May last year, explained that he is leaving his future choices flexible while concentrating entirely on the World Cup, which represents the teams debut in four decades.

"Everything remains possible. My agreement concludes immediately after the tournament. Conversations have surfaced about extending my role, but no official proposal has come my way yet," Arnold shared with AAP.

"Right now, I prefer to avoid any formal discussions. My priority is to attend the World Cup, embrace the moment, and then choose between continuing or pursuing new opportunities."

Arnold, who previously took Australia to the last 16 in the 2022 World Cup held in Qatar, noted that guiding nations with qualification challenges to major events still inspires him greatly.

"I notice certain countries and think, they have not made it in ages, and I would love to achieve that once more," he commented.

"Having gained experience across Asia, I am far from considering retirement."

Iraq earned their World Cup place by defeating Bolivia 2-1 in Mexico during the inter-confederation playoff earlier this month.

Arnold indicated that the qualification effort has bolstered his confidence in Iraqs ability to compete against more prominent teams worldwide.

"We head into it with nothing at stake to lose and plenty to win, along with the opportunity to astonish everyone," he added.

"As the outsiders, we will battle fiercely. If others see no hope for us, we can still create a remarkable outcome there."