Former Morocco head coach Walid Regragui has emerged as a reported candidate to take charge of Iraq following the country’s early exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, as the Iraqi Football Federation considers changes to its technical team.
Local media reports suggest the federation is weighing the future of current coach Graham Arnold after Iraq failed to progress beyond the opening stage of the tournament.
Although no official decision has been announced, Regragui is said to be among the leading names under consideration should the federation decide to appoint a new manager.
The Moroccan coach has been without a job since leaving his position with the Atlas Lions in March, making him available for a new challenge at international level.
According to reports, Iraq’s football authorities are attracted by Regragui’s experience on the global stage and his ability to guide teams through major tournaments.
His achievements with Morocco have reportedly strengthened his reputation across international football, placing him high on the federation’s shortlist.
While speculation over the vacancy has intensified, neither the Iraqi Football Federation nor Regragui has publicly confirmed any negotiations.
Should an agreement eventually be reached, Regragui’s immediate objective would be preparing Iraq for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup, which will be hosted in Saudi Arabia.
The potential move would represent another significant chapter in the growing influence of African coaches on the international football landscape.
Regragui earned widespread recognition during his spell with Morocco, overseeing one of the most successful periods in the country’s football history.
His work elevated the Atlas Lions’ standing on the global stage and established him as one of Africa’s most highly regarded coaches.
His success also enhanced the reputation of African coaching, demonstrating that coaches from the continent can compete with the world’s leading tacticians on football’s biggest stages.
That profile appears to have made him an attractive option for Iraq as the federation looks to rebuild following a disappointing World Cup campaign.
Iraq’s early elimination has prompted questions about the direction of the national team, with attention now shifting towards preparations for future continental competitions.
Although reports indicate Regragui is the preferred candidate, the situation remains uncertain.
No official statement has been issued regarding Graham Arnold’s future, while the reported interest in the Moroccan coach remains based on local media speculation.
Any appointment would likely depend on the federation first confirming a change in leadership before entering formal negotiations with a successor.
