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Italian Coaching Prodigy Antonio Gagliardi Joins Iran’s National Team Technical Staff

Tehran, Iran – In a strategic move to bolster their technical capabilities ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the Iranian Football Federation has appointed Italian coach Antonio Gagliardi as assistant to head coach Amir Ghalenoei. The announcement marks a significant step in Iran’s preparations for global football’s premier competition.

Prestigious Coaching Pedigree

Gagliardi brings an impressive resume to Team Melli, having served with both Juventus FC and the Italian national team that triumphed at UEFA Euro 2020. His experience at the highest levels of European football represents exactly the type of international expertise Iranian football authorities sought to incorporate into their technical structure.

Despite his relatively young age, Gagliardi has accumulated substantial experience working with elite players and in high-pressure tournament environments. His background with Juventus – one of Europe’s most successful clubs – and involvement in Italy’s European Championship victory provide Iran with cutting-edge tactical knowledge and modern training methodologies.

Strategic Appointment for World Cup Preparation

The decision to bring Gagliardi on board reflects Iran’s ambitious approach to its 2026 World Cup campaign. By integrating European coaching expertise directly into their technical staff, the federation aims to:

  • Enhance tactical sophistication and in-game adaptability
  • Implement advanced training and player development techniques
  • Bridge the gap between Asian and European football standards
  • Provide head coach Ghalenoei with high-level strategic support

An ISNA report confirmed that Gagliardi is “ready for a new adventure” with the Iranian national team, indicating the Italian coach’s enthusiasm for this challenging international assignment.

Speculation About Future Leadership Role

The appointment has generated intriguing speculation about the long-term technical direction of Iranian football. Prominent football journalist Fabrizio Romano added a layer of intrigue to the announcement, suggesting that Gagliardi’s role might extend beyond his current position.

Romano noted in his trademark announcement: “This coach is ready to take the first step of coaching after the World Cup.” While not explicitly mentioning Iran, this statement has been widely interpreted to suggest that Gagliardi could be positioned to succeed Ghalenoei as head coach following the 2026 World Cup.

Implications for Iranian Football

This strategic hiring signals several important developments for Iranian football:

Commitment to Modernization: The federation demonstrates a willingness to invest in international expertise to elevate national team performance.

Long-term Planning: The potential succession plan suggests structured thinking beyond immediate tournament preparation.

Global Integration: Bringing European coaching methodology into the Iranian system could benefit player development at multiple levels.

Enhanced Credibility: Association with a Euro 2020-winning technical staff enhances Iran’s profile in international football circles.

As Team Melli continues its World Cup qualification campaign, the integration of Gagliardi’s expertise alongside Ghalenoei’s leadership creates an intriguing technical dynamic. The coming months will reveal how this fusion of Iranian and Italian football philosophies translates to on-field performance and whether Romano’s speculation about Gagliardi’s future role proves accurate.

The appointment represents both an immediate boost to Iran’s World Cup preparations and a potential watershed moment in the technical evolution of Iranian national team football.

Squad annoucned for Al-Ain International Cup.

Team Melli selectors announced the list of 26 players for the Al Ain International Cup tournament

Al Ain International Cup Unites Four World Cup-Bound Teams in November Showcase

Al Ain, UAE – Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium will host the prestigious Al Ain International Cup from November 13-18, bringing together four national teams that have secured their places in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The tournament, organized by Windsunited, will feature Egypt, Iran, Uzbekistan, and Cape Verde competing during the official FIFA international window.

Tournament Structure & Schedule

The four-team competition will see full-strength squads as these nations prepare for major international competitions, including the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco this December and the 2026 World Cup across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Match Schedule (All matches at 8:00 PM UAE time):

  • November 13: Iran vs. Cape Verde
  • November 14: Egypt vs. Uzbekistan
  • November 17: Third-Place Match
  • November 18: Tournament Final

World-Class Venue & Fan Experience

Rashed Abdullah, CEO of Al Ain Investment Club, emphasized the significance of hosting such a prestigious event: “We are delighted to announce this tournament as part of Al Ain’s vibrant events calendar under the patronage and guidance of Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Ain Region.”

“Al Ain has become a distinguished destination for elite teams and athletes worldwide, thanks to its world-class infrastructure and facilities,” Abdullah added. “Hazza bin Zayed Stadium is among the best stadiums globally, and we are pleased to welcome all participating teams and ensure that fans, residents, and visitors alike enjoy unforgettable moments during the matches.”

Tournament Organization & Expectations

Andrea Ferran, CEO of organizing company Windsunited, expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming event: “We look forward to making this tournament a valuable addition to the series of successful international events hosted at Hazza bin Zayed Stadium. Fans can expect a true sporting festival, with top players competing and side events for all ages.”

“We ensured participation from four of the best teams from Africa and Asia — all qualified for the 2026 World Cup — which promises high-level matches featuring world-class players,” Ferran noted, adding that delegations will begin arriving on November 10 for a full week of training and official matches.

Star-Studded Rosters

The tournament promises exceptional talent, with each team bringing their standout players:

Egypt: Features global superstar Mohamed Salah (Liverpool), Omar Marmoush (Manchester City), Rami Rabia (Al Ain), plus several players from Al Ahly, Zamalek, and Pyramids clubs.

Iran: Led by prolific striker Mehdi Taremi of Olympiacos.

Uzbekistan: Boasts Abdukodir Khusanov from Manchester City.

Cape Verde: Welcomes the return of Ryan Mendes to Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium.

Ticket Information

Tickets are available through the Platinumlist website, with organizers promising family-friendly activities to create an exceptional experience combining football excitement with Al Ain City’s outstanding amenities.

The tournament represents a unique opportunity for football enthusiasts to witness World Cup-bound teams in competitive action while celebrating the multicultural community of the UAE through the universal language of football.

The names of the 26 players invited to Team Melli camp are as follows:

GOALKEEPERS: Alireza Beiranvand, Payam Niazand, Seyed Hossein Hosseini, Mohammad Reza Akhbari.

DEFENDERS: Ali Nemati, Milad Mohammadi, Amin Hezbavi, Shojaa Khalilzadeh, Mohammad Hossein Kanaani, Seyed Majid Hosseini, Saleh Hardani, Aria Yousefi, Daniyal Esmaili,

MIDFIELD: Mehdi Hashemnejad, Alireza Koushki, Saeed Ezzatollahi, Omid Noorafkan, Saman Ghoddos, Mohammad Ghorbani, Mohammad Mohebi, Mohammad Tikdari, Hadi Habibinejad,

FORWARDS: Amir Hossein Hosseinzadeh, Mohammad Omri, Mehdi Taremi, Ali Alipour.

Absent from the list is the team Captain, Alireza Jahanbakhsh, who has recently joined Belgian Club FC Dender as he was allowed this FIFA Day period to join the club for better preparation and much-needed practice and training with the new team. Also Absent are Sardar Azmoun, Mehdi Ghaedi , Ali Gholizadeh and Mehdi Mohebi.

Omid Team to play in Kyrgyzstan tournament.

MANAS CUP International Football Tournament will be held in Manas city. The Kyrgyz Football Union (KFU) reported.

The national football team of Kyrgyzstan will also take the field. The matches will be held at Kurmanbek city stadium.

In addition to the host, teams from Bahrain, Iran, and Russia will also participate in the international tournament. All opponents will be represented by U23 Olympic teams.

The players will be 23 years old or younger. All participants in the upcoming games in Osh are preparing for the 2026 AFC Asian Cup final tournament, which will be held in January in Saudi Arabia.

Iran’s Omid Team (U23) will be led by Omid Ravankhah, who has already called 23 players for the squad.
Amir Mehdi Maghsoudi and Aria Shafidoust from (Sepahan),
Arash Mortazavi (Zobahan),
Mohammad Hossein Sadeghi (Persepolis),
Saeed Saharkhizan and Amir Mohammad Razaghinia (Esteghlal),
Afshin Sadeghi, Erfan Jamshidi (Peykan),
Hojjat Ahmadi (Esteghlal Khuzestan),
Arshia Vosoughifar (Fajr Shahid Sepasi),
Farzin Aghagari (Shams Azar),
Hamid Reza Zarooni and Masoud Mohebi (Khyber Khorramabad)
Danial Iri, Abbas Habibi, and Mehdi Jafari (Malvan Bandar Anzali)
Omid Amiri (Nasaji Mazandaran),
Mohammad Khalifa, Seyyed Mehdi Mahdavi, and Bahram Goodarzi (Aluminum Arak),
Alireza Safari (Chador Malo Yazd)
Mohammad Javad HosseinNejad (Dinamo Makhachkala- Russia ) and
Mohammad Mehdi Zare (Akhmat Grozny- Russia).

Matches Schedule

*Iran – Russia; November 11

*Iran – Kyrgyzstan; November 14

*Iran – Bahrain; November 17

Saber Kazemi , rest in peace

From Tehran comes devastating and deeply saddening news. Saber Kazemi, a beloved national volleyball player, rising sports star, and above all, a kind and honest young man, has tragically passed away.

Kazemi, only 26 years old, suffered a heart attack in Qatar, where he was a member of Al Rayyan SC, the team he had joined for this season. Despite all medical efforts, his condition worsened, and he was declared brain dead after sustaining severe brain damage.

The Iranian Volleyball Federation confirmed the heartbreaking news, describing it as an “unbearable loss” for the country and the entire volleyball world. Kazemi was a key figure in the new generation of Iranian volleyball, a powerful and skilled opposite spiker whose talent was recognized internationally. His career was marked by significant contributions to both club and country. He honed his skills with prominent Iranian clubs like Shahrdari Urmia and Paykan Tehran, where his powerful attacks and formidable presence at the net made him a fan favorite and a respected opponent.

His prowess on the court was a testament to his dedication and hard work, qualities that made him a role model for aspiring athletes across Iran and beyond. Saber Kazemi was more than just an athlete — he was a symbol of hope, determination, and humility. His bright smile and warm spirit touched everyone who knew him. On the court, he gave everything for his team; off the court, he was admired for his honesty, kindness, and respect for others.

The outpouring of grief from teammates, rivals, and fans across the globe is a testament to the profound impact he had in his short life. Social media has been flooded with tributes remembering not only the athlete but the gentle soul behind the jersey.

Our hearts go out to his family, teammates, and loved ones during this time of unimaginable grief. The world of volleyball has lost a shining star, and those who knew him have lost a cherished friend.

Rest in peace, Saber. Your light, your kindness, and your indomitable spirit will live on in every heart you touched and in every echo of the game you loved so much. Your moments of glory that you have provided for the volleyball fans will forever remain in our memories. Farewell, young man.

Alireza Jahanbakhsh Seeks Revival with Surprise Move to Belgian Strugglers Dender

In a move that underscores a pivotal juncture in his career, Iranian international winger Alireza Jahanbakhsh has signed a one-year contract with Belgian Pro League club FC Dender, with an option for a further year. The signing concludes a period of unemployment for the 32-year-old after his departure from Eredivisie side Heerenveen.

A Career of Highs and Lows

The official announcement from Dender highlighted the “wealth of experience” Jahanbakhsh brings to the squad. Indeed, his career trajectory has been a rollercoaster. After making his name in the Netherlands with NEC Nijmegen, his prolific spell at AZ Alkmaar culminated in a historic achievement: becoming the first Asian player to finish as the Eredivisie’s top scorer in the 2017-18 season, netting 21 goals for AZ.

This golden boot win earned him a high-profile, multi-million euro transfer to the English Premier League’s Brighton & Hove Albion. However, his time in England was largely underwhelming, as he struggled to adapt to the pace and physicality of the league. Seeking to rediscover his form, he returned to the Netherlands, first with Feyenoord and later with Heerenveen, but was unable to consistently replicate the goal-scoring prowess of his peak years.

On the international stage, Jahanbakhsh has been a fixture for Team Melli, earning 95 caps and scoring 17 goals. He has represented Iran at two FIFA World Cups (2018 and 2022) and multiple AFC Asian Cups, often playing a key role in the team’s attacking line.

Jahanbakhsh scoring vs Oman

A Move Born of Necessity

The sporting context of this transfer is stark. FC Dender is currently in a dire situation, sitting at the very bottom of the Belgian Pro League table without a single win after 13 matches, having secured only four points from four draws. For a player of Jahanbakhsh’s former stature, a move to a club fighting relegation is a clear step down.

This decision is widely seen as a direct consequence of the intense scrutiny over his recent standing with the Iranian national team. For months, Jahanbakhsh had been selected for Team Melli by head coach Amir Ghalenoei despite being a free agent and visibly lacking match fitness and sharpness.

The Team Melli Controversy: A Note on Recent Poor Form and Selection Debate

Jahanbakhsh’s inclusion in recent national team squads has been one of the most contentious issues of Amir Ghalenoei’s tenure. While other Iranian attackers were performing regularly for their clubs, Jahanbakhsh, without a team, was consistently named to the squad and often granted significant playing time.

This policy sparked significant backlash. Reports from the Team Melli camp suggested growing discontent among players and staff, with accusations of favoritism and nepotism leveled at Ghalenoei. Critics argued that it was demoralizing for in-form players to be benched in favor of one who was effectively on an extended leave.

The pressure from the media and, reportedly, from within the squad, reached a boiling point. It is believed that Ghalenoei was forced to issue an ultimatum to Jahanbakhsh: find a club or be left out of future national team selections. The move to Dender, therefore, appears to be a direct response to this pressure. For Jahanbakhsh, the priority was not the prestige of the club, but simply being registered as a professional player to maintain his international eligibility.

An Uncertain Future

For FC Dender, the signing is a low-risk gamble on a player hoping to rediscover his form and leadership. For Alireza Jahanbakhsh, it is a desperate attempt to rescue his place in the national team and prove he can still compete at a professional level. Whether this move to the bottom of the Belgian league will be the launchpad for a career renaissance or simply a last resort before an inevitable decline remains to be seen. All eyes will now be on whether this move is enough to secure his spot in Team Melli for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers.

Legendary Croatian Coach Branko Ivanković Announces Retirement

Zagreb, Croatia – According to a report from Croatian sports media outlet Sportklub, Branko Ivanković, one of Croatia’s most successful international coaches, has decided to retire after a storied coaching career spanning more than three decades.

The 71-year-old, who will turn 72 soon, recently gathered a group of close colleagues he worked with during his tenures in Oman and China and announced his decision at a luncheon. After years of dedication to the touchline for both clubs and national teams, Ivanković stated it was time to rest and prioritize his personal life.

“Enough is enough,” Ivanković told tportal. “These years are no longer the time to travel and wander around the world. Now I want to spend more time with my family, friends, and of course, myself.”

A Storied and Peripatetic Career

Ivanković’s managerial journey has been both long and illustrious. His career includes leading clubs such as Varteks (now Varaždin), Rijeka, Dinamo Zagreb, Hannover 96 (Germany), Persepolis (Iran), Shandong Luneng (China), Al Ahli, Al Wahda, and Al Ittifaq (Saudi Arabia).

His success was not limited to the club level. He also managed four different national teams, most notably serving as an assistant coach to Miroslav Blažević when Croatia sensationally won the bronze medal at the 1998 FIFA World Cup in France.

His achievements cemented his reputation as a trophy-winner. He secured league titles with Dinamo Zagreb (Croatia), Shandong Luneng (China), and most notably with Iran’s Persepolis, where he led the team to five consecutive league championships. This historic feat introduced the term “Gelat” (meaning a quintuple of consecutive titles) into the lexicon of Iranian football.

A Gentleman and a Reformer in Iran

Ivanković first arrived in Iran as an assistant to the legendary Croatian coach Miroslav “Ćiro” Blažević. After Blažević’s departure, Ivanković was offered the head coach position of Team Melli, a role that would define his legacy.

During his tenure, he was widely respected for his dignified, gentlemanly demeanor. He navigated the complex politics of Iranian football with skill and stood firmly against corrupt elements with grace and integrity. A testament to his principled stance was his refusal to succumb to pressure for favoritism towards the two traditional Tehran giants, Persepolis and Esteghlal. Ivanković insisted on selecting players for the national team based solely on competence and merit.

He is considered the first coach in Iran’s modern history to break the duopoly of these two clubs on national team selection. In a landmark shift, the 2004 Asian Cup squad featured more players from Foolad Khuzestan than from any other club—a previously unheard-of practice that underscored his commitment to meritocracy.

In his dealings with the media, he was consistently respectful, maintaining his positions without being controversial or forceful, which further earned him the admiration of fans and journalists alike.

A Lasting Legacy in Iranian Football

Ivanković’s connection with Iran is a defining chapter of his career. He was first appointed head coach of the Iranian national team in January 2002, leading the U-23 side to a gold medal at the 2002 Asian Games in Busan later that year.

Despite his popularity, his initial tenure was brief. After being replaced in late 2002, public and media pressure led to his reappointment in October 2003.

Under his leadership, Team Melli flourished:

  • He guided Iran to a third-place finish at the 2004 AFC Asian Cup.
  • He successfully secured Iran’s qualification for the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany.

At the 2006 World Cup, Iran faced a tough group. After narrow losses to Mexico and Portugal, they earned a single point in a 1-1 draw with Angola, finishing at the bottom of their group.

Following the tournament, a change in the Iranian Football Federation’s leadership led to his replacement. This move, deemed political interference by FIFA, resulted in a temporary suspension for Iran’s football federation.

Despite the World Cup exit, his record with Iran remains impressive. Over two spells, he managed 56 games, winning 33, drawing 14, and losing only 9, giving him a remarkable winning percentage of 58.93%.

With his retirement, the football world bids farewell to a true globetrotting coach whose tactical acumen, unwavering principles, and gentlemanly conduct left a lasting mark from Europe to Asia.

Iranian Football Legend Akbar Kargarjam Passes Away at 81

The world of Iranian football is in mourning today with the passing of Akbar Kargarjam, a legendary figure from the nation’s golden era. After a long and courageous battle with cancer, Kargarjam passed away at Jam Hospital in Tehran. He was 81 years old.

Kargarjam was not just a player; he was an artist on the pitch, a key architect of Iran’s most triumphant years in the 1970s. His name is eternally woven into the fabric of Iranian football history, synonymous with elegance, technical mastery, and success.

A Stellar Career with Taj and Team Melli

As a mainstay for Taj Tehran (now known as Esteghlal FC), Kargarjam was instrumental in one of the club’s greatest achievements: winning the Asian Club Championship in 1971. This victory cemented Taj’s place as a powerhouse in Asian football.

His brilliance at the club level seamlessly translated to the international stage. Kargarjam was a vital component of the legendary Iranian national team that dominated Asian football during that period. He was a key member of the squad that lifted the Asian Cup in 1972, a tournament where Iran’s attacking football captivated the continent. His talents were also recognized on the global stage when he represented Iran as part of the Olympic team at the 1972 Munich Games.

The Elegant Maestro of the Flank

To remember Kargarjam is to recall a specific style of play that has become rare. Deployed as a half-back, he was an elegant and technically gifted half-back, renowned for his intelligent runs and pinpoint deliveries from the flank. He was the quintessential playmaker, whose vision and precision created a wealth of scoring opportunities.

The prolific strikers of that golden generation, including greats like Gholamhossein Mazloomi, Homayoun Behzadi, and Hossein Kalani, were the prime beneficiaries of his exceptional service. Many of their celebrated goals were born from the chances crafted by Kargarjam’s genius.

A Legacy Among the Greats

In the annals of Iranian football, the debate for the greatest half-back often features two iconic names: Persepolis’s Ebrahim Ashtiani and Taj’s Akbar Kargarjam. This rivalry was not one of animosity but of mutual excellence, pushing each other and their teams to greater heights. Together, they are widely regarded as the finest players to ever grace that position in Iran.

His contributions were officially recognized when he was elected as the Iranian Football Man of the Year in the 1970s, a testament to his standing as the nation’s premier footballer.

Kargarjam’s international career began on September 10, 1971, in a match against South Korea. From that debut, he went on to earn 30 caps for Team Melli, contributing one goal while providing countless assists and dictating the tempo of play from midfield.

Akbar Kargarjam’s passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy will endure. He leaves behind a treasure trove of memories for football fans and a standard of excellence for future generations. He was a true symbol of Iran’s footballing golden age, and he will be deeply missed. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and countless admirers.

Japan considering AFC exit.

Rumors Swirl: Japan Football Association Reportedly Considers AFC Exit to Form New East Asian Federation

Recent reports from various East Asian media outlets have sparked significant discussion within the football community. According to these sources, officials from the Japan Football Association (JFA) are reportedly exploring the possibility of withdrawing from the Asian Football Confederation (AFC). This news follows the Japanese national team’s consistent and remarkable performances on the global stage, where they have established themselves as Asia’s top-ranked team, currently sitting at 19th in the FIFA World Rankings.

The speculation gained traction after reports from outlets like India’s “IFTWC” (Indian Football Team For World Cup) and Iran’s Mehr News Agency. These reports suggest that the JFA is not only considering an exit but is also spearheading an initiative to form a new, FIFA-recognized confederation tentatively named the “East Asian Football Federation” (EAFF).

Alleged Motivations Behind the Move

The reported motivations for this drastic step are rooted in long-standing grievances within the AFC. The primary reasons cited include:

  • Governance and Integrity Concerns: Significant dissatisfaction with allegations of manipulation and corruption within the AFC’s governance structure. These concerns suggest that certain decisions, from refereeing appointments to competition scheduling, have been unfair and unjust, undermining the sport’s integrity.
  • Geopolitical and Financial Influence: A perceived disproportionate influence of West Asian nations, particularly Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Qatar, within the AFC. Their substantial financial investments in football are believed by some critics to translate into undue influence over competition outcomes, hosting rights, and confederation policies, often to the detriment of East Asian member associations.

Proposed New Confederation and Potential Members

The proposed “East Asian Football Confederation” aims to create a more cohesive and geographically concentrated footballing body. The idea has reportedly attracted global attention and preliminary interest from several regional nations, including:

  • East Asian Football Federation (EAFF) Members: Japan, South Korea, China, North Korea, Hong Kong (China), Macau (China), Chinese Taipei, and Mongolia.
  • ASEAN Region Interest: Several Southeast Asian nations have also been mentioned as potential members, including Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia. Their inclusion would significantly expand the new confederation’s footprint and competitive diversity.

Important Context and Official Stance

It is crucial to note that these reports remain speculative and have not been officially confirmed by the Japan Football Association. As of the current date, no formal announcement or application to leave the AFC has been made.

While these rumors underscore genuine regional tensions and frustrations, the path to forming a new confederation is fraught with monumental logistical and political hurdles. Any such move would require formal approval from FIFA, necessitating the navigation of complex diplomatic relationships, particularly concerning the inclusion of all proposed member nations.

Furthermore, the geopolitical landscape of global football presents a significant obstacle. The influence of oil-rich Persian Gulf states extends deeply into the very fabric of FIFA’s governance and financial structure. Given their vested interest in maintaining a unified AFC, these nations would likely oppose the formation of a breakaway federation. In such a scenario, FIFA, an organization itself no stranger to allegations of corruption, political horse-trading, and profit-driven decision-making, would be unlikely to endorse a move that threatens its most lucrative continental body and internal power balances. The close relationships between FIFA President Gianni Infantino and various world leaders, including those in the Persian Gulf and beyond, further complicate the political calculus, making any such realignment a profoundly geopolitical affair.

Consequently, while the football world will monitor any official statements from the JFA or AFC with keen interest, the current proposition remains a highly speculative, though revealing, indicator of deep-seated issues within Asian football. Should these plans ever materialize against the odds, they would undoubtedly represent the most significant realignment in Asian football history, fundamentally reshaping the continental competitive landscape for generations to come.

AFC Coach of the Year (Women) 2025: Marziyeh Jafari

Thu, 16 October, 2025

Riyadh: History was made at the AFC Awards Riyadh 2025 presented by NEOM on Thursday as Marziyeh Jafari became the first-ever AFC Coach of the Year (Women) winner from Iran.

An esteemed name in the Asian coaching landscape, Jafari was honoured for successfully leading IR Iran through the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026™ Qualifiers, sealing a second consecutive appearance at the Continental showpiece after their debut in 2022.

Requiring nothing less than victory in their final Group Stage showdown against Jordan, Jafari masterminded a vital 2-1 win to seal qualification—a feat made more remarkable by the fact that she had only taken charge around three months prior.

The 43-year-old, only the third nominee from Iran after Shahrzad Mozafar (2010) and Katayoun Khosrowyar (2019), is now the 15th winner of this accolade, which also recognised her achievements at club level with Bam Khatoon Women’s FC.

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Before helming the Iran women’s national team, Jafari had led Bam Khatoon from the Preliminary Stage of the AFC Women’s Champions League™ 2024/25 all the way to the Quarter-finals.

That was the latest feather in the cap for the Bam native, who started her coaching path at just 17 and has been the guiding force behind Bam Khatoon’s success after joining in 2008. Promotion to the top flight followed in 2009, before Jafari went on to win the first of 11 league titles in 2011, with the most recent crown coming in March 2025.

AFC Futsal Player of the Year 2025: Salar Aghapour

Riyadh: Iran futsal star Salar Aghapour took home the AFC Futsal Player of the Year trophy on Thursday evening at the AFC Awards Riyadh 2025 presented by NEOM.

Aghapour’s eye-catching displays at the FIFA Futsal World Cup Uzbekistan 2024 saw him get the nod ahead of team-mate Moslem Oladghobad, the 2022 winner, and fellow first-time nominee Muhammad Osamanmusa, as he became the seventh IR Iran player and the 16th overall to win the prize.

The 25-year-old, renowned for his mercurial skills and spectacular goal catalogue, recorded goal contributions in every match for IR Iran as they reached the Round of 16, by tallying six goals and three assists.

Part of the Iran side that lifted the AFC Futsal Asian Cup™ Thailand 2024 as well as the victorious AE Palma de Mallorca team in the UEFA Futsal Champions League 2023/24, Aghapour has cemented his status as a world-class talent and currently plies his trade for Gohar Zamin.




🏆 AFC Futsal Player of the Year Winners (2007–2025)

YearPlayerCountry
2025Salar AghapourIran
2022Moslem OladghobadIran
2016Ali Asghar HasanzadehIran
2015Ali Asghar HasanzadehIran
2014Ali Asghar HasanzadehIran
2013Mohammad KeshavarzIran
2012Rafael HenmiJapan
2011Mohammad TaheriIran
2010Kenichiro KogureJapan
2009Vahid ShamsaeiIran
2008Vahid ShamsaeiIran
2007Vahid ShamsaeiIran

📝 Note: The award was officially introduced in 2007, and Iran has dominated the category with 7 different winners and multiple repeat titles.