Sardar Azmoun's omission from Iran's preliminary World Cup squad has ignited a fierce debate within the country, with many believing his exclusion is politically motivated. The 31-year-old striker, who has scored 57 goals in 91 appearances for Iran, was left out despite his impressive credentials, which include stints at Bayer Leverkusen, Roma, and Zenit St Petersburg. Few accept coach Amir Ghalenoei's claim that the decision was based solely on technical reasons.
Azmoun's Social Media Activism
Azmoun has a history of speaking out against the Iranian regime. During the 2022 protests following Mahsa Amini's death, he posted on Instagram: "At worst I'll be dismissed from the national team. No problem. I'd sacrifice that for one hair on the heads of Iranian women." This stance has made him a target of hardliners, especially after he met with UAE Prime Minister Mohammed bin Rashid al-Maktoum, a country Tehran views as an antagonist. The Iran Revolutionary Guards accused him of "cooperation with Iran's enemies."
Reactions and Consequences
TV pundit Mohammed Misaghi criticized Azmoun, saying he was "not worthy of wearing the national team jersey." Azmoun responded defiantly, stating his pride in representing Iran. However, some officials have softened, with Vice-President Abdolkarim Hosseinzadeh calling for his reinstatement. Despite this, Ghalenoei may be reluctant to reverse his decision, as Iran prepares for the World Cup against New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt.
Azmoun's absence also raises questions about Iran's squad depth. While he has struggled with injuries this season, his experience and goal-scoring ability are unmatched. Meanwhile, Iran's World Cup preparations are complicated by visa issues for the US, with Fifa approving a training camp switch to Tijuana, Mexico, near their opening game in Los Angeles.
Azmoun has wished his teammates well on social media, saying: "Wishing you all the best, guys. It's true that I'm not there with you, but you are my friends." His exclusion remains a contentious issue, highlighting the intersection of sports and politics in Iran.
