Iranian national team head coach Amir Ghalenoei has unveiled a 35-man roster for upcoming friendly matches, with a significant omission drawing immediate attention. Veteran forward Sardar Azmoun, the team’s second-highest all-time scorer, was not included in the squad set to face Nigeria and Costa Rica in Turkey.
The exclusion follows widespread reports in Iranian media, citing sources within the football federation, that Azmoun has been removed from the national team setup. The decision is reportedly linked to a recent social media post by the player, which featured an image of him meeting with Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the ruler of Dubai.
This act has been interpreted by authorities as a gesture lacking in national solidarity. The geopolitical context is acute, as tensions have escalated following recent military actions in the region. The national football federation has not issued an official statement regarding Azmoun’s status.
The squad announcement did include a new face, with German-Iranian striker Dennis Eckert receiving his first call-up. The Standard Liège player is eligible through his paternal heritage.
Iran’s preparations for the upcoming World Cup, to be hosted in North America, continue under a cloud of uncertainty, compounded by both the ongoing geopolitical situation and now this internal team controversy.
