“You prevented me from fulfilling my dream with bad intentions”
Former Spanish Coach’s Harsh Words Against Iraqi Football Federation
Jesus Casas, former coach of the Iraq national team, is deeply upset with the behavior of the country’s football managers and his sudden departure.
Jesus Casas has ended his tenure as head coach of the Iraq national team. The Spanish coach, who took charge in November 2022 with the goal of qualifying for the World Cup, suddenly terminated his contract despite strong results and high chances of qualification.
In a statement released on social media, he explained: “At that time, our work with the Iraq national team began, with the sole goal of preparing to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.”
Casas leaves behind a legacy that will be hard to forget in Iraq. Under his leadership, Iraq won the Gulf Cup in Basra, defeated Japan in the Asian Cup, and won all their matches in the first round of World Cup qualifiers.
He recalled: “We will carry memories that will last a lifetime. Winning the Gulf Cup in Basra allowed us to experience special moments with the Iraqi people. The victory over Japan… was emotional for the entire country.”
The team’s strong performance in World Cup qualifiers has placed Iraq third in their group standings, with a good chance of qualification. Matches against South Korea and Jordan are crucial.
However, despite having a real chance to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, Casas will no longer be able to lead the team. He lamented: “After two and a half years, this project ends without allowing us to fight until the end for our dream. A difficult decision to understand, as everything was in our hands for the next two matches.”
Casas also expressed dissatisfaction with the manner of his departure, accusing the Iraqi Football Federation of failing to honor contractual commitments. He emphasized: “We wish to express our dissatisfaction with the bad-faith behavior of the federation in not fulfilling contractual obligations.”
“We always defended Iraq’s image, even in very sensitive moments. The behavior of some individuals and unacceptable pressures will ultimately damage the country’s reputation and seriously harm its international standing, not just in football.”
Casas ended his time in Iraq by thanking the players and the Iraqi people, with whom he had formed a special bond. He said emotionally: “We are very proud to have contributed to the growth and progress of Iraqi football. I want to thank all the love and affection I received from the Iraqi people, in both good and difficult times.”
