Iraq coach Graham Arnold has selected a 26-man squad for the 27th Gulf Cup with the team determined to claim the title in the tournament hosted by Saudi Arabia. The announcement came during a press conference where Arnold outlined his ambitions for the competition that serves as key preparation for upcoming Asian obligations. According to the Iraqi News Agency, the coach stressed that his players must show full commitment and passion to represent the national team.
“The Lions of Mesopotamia are going there to win the 27th Gulf Cup,” Arnold told the Iraqi News Agency. He explained that the squad blends experience with youth by pairing seasoned internationals with younger talents across positions to develop leadership within the group. The coach revealed he had informed the federation of specific needs in centre-back and striker positions while confirming that appropriate solutions are being pursued ahead of subsequent competitions.
The squad announced by Arnold comprises three goalkeepers: Ahmed Basil, Mohammed Saleh and Hussein Hassan. Defenders called up include Ahmed Yahya, Mustafa Saadoun, Maitham Jabbar, Zaid Tahseen, Akam Hashim, Youssef Imam, Merchas Doski, Mohammed Dlawer and Ibrahim Bayesh. Midfielders selected are Zidane Iqbal, Bassam Shaker, Zaid Ismail, Amir Al-Ammari, Haider Abdul-Karim, Abdulrazzaq Qasim, Karrar Nabil and Mohammed Qasim.
Forwards in the squad are Ahmed Qasim, Ali Jasim, Seif Rashid, Aymen Hussein, Ali Al-Hamadi and Youssef Al-Nasrawi with Aymen Hussein expected to captain the attack. This selection reflects some renewal from the side that featured at the 2026 FIFA World Cup with opportunities provided to emerging domestic talents. Arnold opted against including certain midfielders such as Aimar Sher to assess other options in that area of the pitch.
Iraq has been drawn in Group A alongside hosts Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Oman for the tournament scheduled to take place in Jeddah from September 23 to October 6. The Lions of Mesopotamia enter the competition as four-time champions of the Gulf Cup with their most recent success in the 25th edition. The event offers Arnold a platform to evaluate squad cohesion following the team’s return to the global stage earlier this year.
In further remarks the coach addressed player Montader Madjed noting ongoing communication and the individual’s request to prioritise club commitments at present. The Iraqi Football Association is expected to finalise travel arrangements for the squad in the coming days ahead of the regional showdown. Arnold’s approach underscores a focus on building for the long term while pursuing immediate success in the prestigious tournament.
