According to reports, Jesús Casas was no ordinary coach. With a strong personality, leadership skills, and a clear football philosophy, he played a pivotal role in Iraq’s Gulf Cup 2023 triumph—their first major title in over a decade.

He also masterminded Iraq’s flawless World Cup qualifying campaign with six consecutive wins and led them to a historic victory over Japan in the Asian Cup, a team unbeaten in the group stage since the 1980s.

However, the Spanish coach’s journey with Iraq ended abruptly, unfairly for someone who not only achieved remarkable results but also transformed the team’s structure and mentality.

Speaking on Radio Marca’s program, Casas expressed his disappointment but remained composed, stating: “I’m not okay. I’m upset, both professionally and personally. But that’s football. Our performance was excellent, and I hope another opportunity arises.”

Unjust Dismissal

His exit was not due to poor results: “We were still in World Cup qualifiers with two rounds left. From a sporting perspective, this decision made no sense. But in Iraqi football culture, short-term results dictate everything: lose one game, and everything collapses.”

A loss to Palestine triggered his dismissal. Instead of professional handling, the Iraqi FA offered a ridiculous proposal: less than 8% of his original contract value! Casas revealed: “When we refused, they leaked my contract publicly, threatened me with tax issues, and even filed a lawsuit. It’s all very unpleasant. I hope FIFA resolves this.”

Casas calmly defended his legacy, having rejected offers from teams like South Korea to honor his commitment to Iraq. “The bond we built with the federation and fans was genuine. That’s why this hurts more. Some told me, ‘Our country didn’t deserve you.’ They know what we achieved.”

Internal conflicts worsened the situation: “There’s infighting in the federation. Everyone pursues personal interests. Fair play was ignored, and my reputation was tarnished. But time will reveal the truth.”

Cost of Overseas Training

Casas isn’t the first coach to face this: “In Iraq, a coach can be fired from three clubs in one season. Results alone matter, not long-term vision. When they imposed unfair financial terms, a bitter war began.”

Despite everything, his impact is undeniable: “My connection with Iraqi fans was incredible. Many messages say, ‘We didn’t deserve you.’ They remember how football was before us—we brought methodology, structure, and youth development.”

Casas convinced dual-nationality players (from Sweden, Germany) to represent Iraq and recalled those who had left. “These achievements will last. Players and officials know it—but the federation president ignored it. That’s the saddest part.”

A Bitter End to a Valuable Experience

Casas cherishes his time in Iraq: “Two and a half years was significant. Personally and professionally, it was extraordinary. I learned about a new culture, a different way of life and football. I’ll carry this forever.”

As lawyers handle legal matters, he waits—not with bitterness, but hope for justice: “Time will set things right. We gave our all for Iraqi football. We didn’t just play—we built for its future.”