Basra: Hussein Abdul Wahid, the coach of Al-Minaa, has taken a firm stance regarding the potential hiring of a foreign coach by the club’s management. He has expressed that if the club decides to recruit a foreign coach, they should dismiss him and terminate his contract, making it clear that he will not serve as an assistant coach.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Abdul Wahid emphasized his dedication and professionalism, stating that he has worked diligently for Al-Minaa. He highlighted his efforts in building a competitive team this season, worthy of representing Basra. However, he noted that the delay in paying players’ dues has affected their commitment to training, hindering the team’s progress.

Basra Governor, Asaad Al-Eidani, who also heads the interim administrative committee of Al-Minaa Club, has been involved in discussions regarding the coaching situation. He confirmed ongoing negotiations with Argentine coach Sergio Batista to lead the team, known as “Al-Safana,” in the Iraqi Stars League. Despite these talks, Al-Eidani has assured that Abdul Wahid will remain with the team.

Al-Eidani promised that the local government would support Al-Minaa Club by ensuring the payment of players’ dues within two days. He also mentioned plans to relocate the team’s accommodation to hotels in the sports complex and provision of equipment by Adidas. Additionally, the team will travel to Baghdad by plane to ensure optimal conditions for performance.

The club is currently grappling with administrative challenges and a financial crisis, which has led to some players boycotting training sessions after their recent match in Erbil. This situation has evidently impacted their performance, as seen in their recent 3-0 defeat to Al-Naft at Al-Fayhaa Stadium in Basra, where all goals were conceded in the first half.