Category: News

Team Melli departs to Turkey.

TEHRAN – Team Melli, the Iranian national football team, departed for Antalya, Turkey, this morning (Monday, May 18, 2026) to commence a crucial training camp and a friendly match against Gambia. The provisional squad consists of 30 players, 22 domestic-based and eight legionnaires. However, with FIFA mandating a final roster of just 26 players, four will be cut following the camp.

Upon concluding their Turkish preparations, the squad is scheduled to move to their U.S. base at the Kino Sports Complex in Tucson, Arizona, in early June, before heading to California for their first two World Cup matches. Team Melli manager Mohammad Nabi has indicated the possibility of facing another African side after Gambia, while expressing hope that the previously canceled friendly against Puerto Rico, originally planned on U.S. soil, might be revived.

Visa Hurdles Loom Large

Yet overshadowing these plans is a growing concern over entry to the United States. As of now, no member of the Iranian delegation, players or staff, has been granted permission to enter the country. The possibility that some staff members or players could be denied a U.S. visa remains very real, casting a pall over the team’s logistical preparations.

When asked whether FIFA had secured any assurances regarding entry and visa arrangements for Iran’s players, FIFA Secretary-General Mattias Grafstrom declined to elaborate. His reticence signaled that the world football governing body may have little to no influence on such matters, despite public assurances previously given by FIFA President Gianni Infantino.

A Troubling Precedent

Compounding these anxieties is the recent experience of Mehdi Taj, the head of Iran’s football federation, who encountered significant difficulties entering Canada for a FIFA conference. Although Canada is only fractionally less hostile to Iran than the United States, the incident serves as a stark warning of the type of challenges the Iranian delegation will likely face when attempting to enter North America.

For a squad already grappling with a plethora of issues, ranging from finalizing the roster to managing political pressures and logistical hurdles, the threat of visa denials represents an added burden before a single ball is even kicked in the World Cup.

The Cost of Exclusion: Why Omitting Azmoun Weakens Iran’s World Cup Dream

The Iranian striker of Shabab Al-Ahli has broken his silence—indirectly—over his controversial omission from the national team squad.

After being unexpectedly left out of Team Melli’s FIFA World Cup 2026 roster and missing two preparatory friendlies against Nigeria and Costa Rica, Sardar Azmoun had hoped for a recall under head coach Ghalenoei. His goal was clear: to earn a place in the 30-man preliminary list for the FIFA World Cup 2026. That call, however, never came.

Iran’s third-highest goalscorer of all time has now taken an indirect but telling stance on the matter. Azmoun, who faced sharp criticism early in the third imposed war against Iran for posting (and quickly deleting) a photo with the ruler of Dubai on his Instagram page, and who previously missed a national team training camp, will now be absent from the United States. In a bid to rebuild bridges, he recently posted a picture of himself in the national team jersey on his Instagram profile—an apparent gesture of regret and a signal of his readiness to return. But it was not enough. The door remained closed, and Azmoun was ultimately left out of the 2026 World Cup.

The exclusion of Sardar Azmoun, arguably the finest Iranian striker of his generation alongside Mehdi Taremi, is a glaring injustice and a stark example of how political influence continues to plague Iranian football. This is not the first time Team Melli has been deprived of its best talents. The pattern dates back to the 1978 FIFA World Cup, when Parviz Ghelichkhani, the most decorated player in Iranian football history, was expelled from the squad by the Shah’s regime due to his anti-establishment political activities.


In a political sense, Azmoun is no Ghelichkhani. He can hardly be labeled a political opposition figure in any meaningful sense. Ghleechkhani was arrested and paraded in front of the national Television with a forced reading of his guilt. He was incarcerated and then pleaded for clemency. Nothing like that has happened in Azmoun’s case. However, a combination of poor timing, a lack of shrewdness, and occasional petulance has landed him in hot water. Yet, he is far from the only senior member of the current squad guilty of indiscipline or indiscretion. Many players on this roster have committed similar, if not worse, lapses in judgment. The difference with Azmoun lies not in the nature of his actions, but in the timing.

The consequences of this wrong decision are clear: Team Melli, which desperately needs Azmoun’s clinical finishing, movement, and big-game experience, will enter the 2026 World Cup without one of its most potent offensive weapons. His absence weakens Iran’s attacking depth and removes a player capable of changing a match against elite opposition. In tight group-stage encounters, where goals are at a premium, the lack of a striker of Azmoun’s caliber could prove catastrophic.

According to insiders and unconfirmed reports, FFIRI was allegedly helpless, as the final decision lay beyond their control, suggesting higher authorities ruled on Azmoun’s exclusion. Whether true or not, the outcome remains the same.

In the end, it is not the officials, not the coaches, and not even Azmoun himself who will suffer most. It will be the millions of Team Melli fans across the globe, passionate, long-suffering, and loyal, who will feel the sting of his absence deepest.

Once again, politics has triumphed over football, and the beautiful game has lost.

Iran announces preliminary 30 players list for the World Cup.

Agence France-Presse

Iran’s World Cup squad will travel to Turkey on Monday for a training camp, friendlies and to complete visa applications before heading to the United States.

Team Melli will be returning to Antalya, where they trained and played friendlies in March.

They are taking a squad of 30 players, which will have to be trimmed to the World Cup maximum of 26. Perhaps the best known is 33-year-old former Porto striker Mehdi Taremi, now with Olympiacos.

“Selecting 30 players for this final training camp ahead of the World Cup was the most difficult technical decision of my coaching career,” head coach Amir Ghalenoei told the Iranian football federation website, adding he had selected players solely on “technical criteria”.

Iran hope to play two friendlies in Antalya. They have already confirmed one match, against Gambia, on May 29, said Sam Mehdizadeh, an Iranian-Canadian who heads a company that sets up friendlies for the team.

Iran and the US cut diplomatic ties in 1980 and the players are expected to use their time in Turkey to complete the necessary procedures for obtaining visas.

“No visas have been issued yet,” Mehdi Taj, the Iranian football federation head, told Iranian media.

Taj said players were expected to undergo fingerprinting in Turkey as part of the visa process but wished to avoid a trip of more than 280 miles (450km) from Antalya to Ankara.

Taj is expected to hold talks with Fifa president Gianni Infantino as Tehran seeks assurances for its squad amid tensions increased by the ongoing war.

He and the Iranian delegation met with Turkish football federation (TFF) president Ibrahim Ethem Haciosmanoglu and Mattias Grafstrom, the Fifa secretary general, on Saturday in Istanbul.

Dennis Dargahi , the German Iranian player, was recently added to Team Mell

“During this meeting, assessments were made regarding the training camp and preparations planned by the Iranian national team in Turkey ahead of the World Cup,” the TFF said on social media.

When the squad reaches the US, Iran will set up their base camp in Tucson, Arizona.
They are expected to kick off their World Cup campaign against New Zealand in Los Angeles on 15 June, before facing Belgium in the same city and then Egypt in Seattle, in Group G.

INITIAL 30 MAN ROSTER.

Goalkeepers: Alireza Beiranvand, Seyed Hossein Hosseini, Mohammad Khalifa, Payam Niazmand

Defenders: Daniyal Iri, Ehsan Hajsafi, Saleh Hardani, Hossein Kananizadegan, Shoja Khalilzadeh, Milad Mohammadi, Ali Nemati, Omid Noorafkan, Ramin Rezaian, Aria Yousefi

Midfielders: Roozbeh Cheshmi, Saeed Ezzatollahi, Mehdi Ghaedi, Saman Ghoddos, Mohammad Ghorbani, Alireza Jahanbakhsh, Mohammad Mohebi, Amir Mohammad Razaghinia, Mehdi Torabi.

Forwards: Ali Alipour, Dennis Dargahi (AKA Dennis Eckert), Hadi Habibinejad, Amir Hossein Hosseinzadeh, Amir Hossein Mahmoudi, Kasra Taheri, and Mehdi Taremi

MAJOR ABSENTEES:

There is no place on this list for Sardar Azmoun (the third-highest scorer in Iranian history) due to non-sporting reasons. Also, Allahyar Sayyadmanesh (winger for Belgian team Westerlo) has been excluded, while the rising star Mohammad Javad Hosseinnejad (a young midfielder playing in Russia).
Other absentees include Ali Gholizadeh, Lech Poznan winger, who suffered a serious injury in the Polish League.

FIFA says it held positive talks with Mehdi Taj ahead of World Cup

By Ali Kucukgocmen

ISTANBUL, May 16 (Reuters) – FIFA Secretary-General Mattias Grafstrom held a constructive and positive meeting with Iran’s FA (FFIRI) President Mehdi Taj on Saturday, he told Reuters, expressing confidence about the country’s participation at this year’s World Cup.

Iran are scheduled to play all three of their group matches in the United States but the team’s participation in the June 11 to July 19 tournament has been in question since the U.S. and Israel attacked Iran in late February.

Soccer Football - Iran Football Association president Mehdi Taj meets FIFA secretary general Mattias Grafstrom - Istanbul, Turkey - May 16, 2026 Iranian FA President Mehdi Taj, FIFA Secretary-General Mattias Grafstrom, Turkish Football Federation president Ibrahim Haciosmanoglu and Secretary General Hedayat Mombeni. REUTERS/Murad Sezer

Iran Football Association president Mehdi Taj meets FIFA secretary general Mattias Grafstrom – Istanbul, Turkey – May 16, 2026 Iranian FA President Mehdi Taj, FIFA Secretary-General Mattias Grafstrom, Turkish Football Federation president Ibrahim Haciosmanoglu and Secretary General Hedayat Mombeni. REUTERS/Murad Sezer© Thomson Reuters

“We’ve had an excellent and constructive meeting together with the Iran FA,” Grafstrom said during a visit to Istanbul. “We’re working closely together and looking very much forward to welcoming them in the FIFA World Cup.”

More questions have arisen after FFIRI’s Taj was refused entry to Canada for the FIFA Congress in Vancouver earlier this month because of his links to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).

Soccer Football - Iran Football Association president Mehdi Taj meets FIFA secretary general Mattias Grafstrom - Istanbul, Turkey - May 16, 2026 Iranian FA President Mehdi Taj and Secretary General Hedayat Mombeni with FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafstrom. REUTERS/Murad Sezer

Iran Football Association president Mehdi Taj meets FIFA secretary general Mattias Grafstrom – Istanbul, Turkey – May 16, 2026 Iranian FA President Mehdi Taj and Secretary General Hedayat Mombeni with FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafstrom. REUTERS/Murad Sezer© Thomson Reuters

The U.S. and Canada, who are co-hosting the World Cup with Mexico, classify the IRGC as a “terrorist entity” and have made it clear they will not admit people with links to the elite military force.

Grafstrom declined to provide details on the visa situation for Iran’s players, but said the two sides had the opportunity to discuss some of the operational matters and had a positive exchange.

Taj told Reuters that FFIRI had a very good meeting with Grafstrom and other FIFA officials.

“I am pleased that they listened to Iran’s points, all 10 points that we had raised, and they offered solutions for each of them. I hope, God willing, that our national team can go to the World Cup without any problems and achieve very good results there,” he said.Soccer Football - Iran Football Association president Mehdi Taj meets FIFA secretary general Mattias Grafstrom - Istanbul, Turkey - May 16, 2026 Iranian FA President Mehdi Taj and FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafstrom speak with Reuters after their meeting. REUTERS/Murad Sezer

Iran Football Association president Mehdi Taj meets FIFA secretary general Mattias Grafstrom – Istanbul, Turkey – May 16, 2026 Iranian FA President Mehdi Taj and FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafstrom speak with Reuters after their meeting. REUTERS/Murad Sezer© Thomson Reuters

Asked if FIFA had secured assurances on entry and visa arrangements for Iran’s players, Grafstrom declined to elaborate.

“We’ve discussed all relevant matters, but I think it’s not the place to discuss the details,” he said. “Overall, a very positive meeting and we’re looking forward to continuing the dialogue.”

Iran had asked for their World Cup matches to be switched to Mexico but FIFA President Gianni Infantino insists that all games must be played at the grounds originally scheduled.

Iran’s squad will leave Tehran for a training camp in Turkey on Monday before moving on to their U.S. base at the Kino Sports Complex in Tucson, Arizona in early June.

Iran are scheduled to get their World Cup campaign under way against New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15. They are also due to play Belgium and Egypt in Group G.

(Reporting by Ali Kucukgocmen: Writing by Daren Butler; Editing by Ken Ferris

Teymourian discusses Team Melli preperations.

National team coach Andranik Teymourian has emphasized that the upcoming training camp in Turkey will be a vital phase for refining the squad’s weaknesses ahead of the World Cup, with the preliminary player list set to be announced within days.

Speaking to ISNA, Teymourian detailed how the Turkey camp is designed to be the final piece in the team’s tactical preparation. “The technical staff monitored the players and designed exercises for them based on their physical conditions,” he said. “The players had a few good weeks of training, and with Mr. Ghalenoei’s guidance, it was decided to hold intra-squad matches because the Premier League hasn’t started. But Turkey is where everything must come together.”

He confirmed that the initial squad list will be unveiled shortly, noting that a few players are likely to miss the crucial gathering. “The preliminary list will be announced in the next one to two days. I think there are a few people who will not accompany us in the Turkish camp—that decision rests with Mr. Ghalenoei’s perspective.”

Teymourian stressed that the camp is intended to transform the team’s remaining flaws into strengths. “We did very well in defense, midfield, and attack phases, but turning weaknesses into strengths takes time. I hope this process will be fully completed during our time in Turkey, so we can attend the World Cup fully prepared. I want all our players available there so we can maximize every session.”

Regarding the friendly schedule leading into the camp, Teymourian explained that two matches were canceled at the last minute, but a confirmed game against Gambia will serve as a key test. “There has also been some talk about a match with Puerto Rico,” he added.

Looking beyond the training camp to the World Cup itself, the coach voiced strong optimism. “Everyone’s wish is for the national team to advance to the higher stages of the World Cup. Iran has a real chance to do so, and the work we put in now in Turkey will be the foundation for that.”

On the Asian Cup, he remained focused on the immediate task. “We had a very good draw for the Asian Cup, but it is too early to discuss it. Our priority now is the World Cup. We first need a good result in the World Cup, and then we can talk about the Asian Cup. After the World Cup, newer players will be added, though we already have a strong blend of youth and experience.”

Team Melli Spring 2026 Camp images

In preparation for the FIFA World Cup 2027 . Them Melli has set up a Training camp for the domestic league players. With the suspension of the league due to hostilities, the head coach elected to keep the players in shape and create a cordial atmosphere. Over 30 player were invited, and the training was conducted in two sessions daily.
The next phase of training will be conducted in Antalya, Turkey. The camp will include a friendly international match with the

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Hossein Abdi Appointed Head Coach of Iran’s U-23 Team.

TEHRAN (IRNA) – Hossein Abdi has been officially selected as the new head coach of Iran’s Omid national team, the country’s under-23 side. The decision, announced by the Football Federation of the Islamic Republic of Iran (FFIRI), tasks Abdi with leading a generation of players intended to carry the torch in Iranian football’s long-awaited return to the Olympic Games—an event that has been a persistent failure for the nation’s football community over the years.

Abdi’s appointment comes despite, or perhaps because of, his impressive recent track record with grassroots teams. Over the past several seasons, he has demonstrated a keen ability to identify and develop young talent, successfully introducing a number of promising players to the top levels of Iranian domestic football and, in some cases, to the senior national team.

First Words: Pride, Responsibility, and National Duty

Shortly after his selection, Abdi spoke publicly about the weight of his new role and the urgent need for comprehensive support to achieve the ultimate goal of Olympic qualification.

“First of all, I must say that I am proud to work in such a position for the youth of my country,” Abdi began. “I may have been given a small role, but this responsibility is very significant. This mission has been assigned to me, and I am happy to be on this path.”

Addressing the circumstances of his acceptance, the new head coach revealed that this was not his first approach from the federation. “I had such an offer before. But in the current situation, it no longer matters whether I personally liked it or not. The main issue is the heavy national duty. We have little time, and we must work day and night to fulfill our obligation in the best possible way.”

Long-Term Vision Beyond Short-Term Results

Unlike some previous appointments focused narrowly on immediate qualification, Abdi emphasized that his outlook is not limited to short-term results. Instead, he has developed a long-term plan aimed at building the very foundation of Iranian football’s future.

“In the conversations I had with respected officials of the federation and the Ministry of Sports,” Abdi explained, “I made it clear that if only a short-term goal is being considered, perhaps other people would be more suitable for this job.”

He then appealed for collective support: “But with the full backing of the football family, and especially the dear people of our country, we can achieve good things and put a smile on their faces.”

Context and Challenges Ahead

Iran has not qualified for the Olympic men’s football tournament since 1976, and successive generations have fallen short in Asian qualifying campaigns. Abdi now faces the formidable task of reversing that decades-long drought with a squad of young players who must be developed rapidly but also sustainably.

His success will depend not only on his tactical acumen but also on the federation’s willingness to provide consistent resources, friendly matches, and a stable competitive environment—conditions that have often been lacking for previous Omid team coaches.

For now, Abdi strikes a tone of humble determination: the work begins immediately, and the clock is already ticking.

Team Melli to Hold Third Intra-Squad Friendly Ahead of Turkish Camp

TEHRAN – Iran’s Team Melli, will conduct its third intra-squad match tomorrow (Tuesday) at Shahid Dastgerdi Stadium (formerly Pas Qavamin), as part of the fourth phase of its preparatory training camp.

The internal friendly has been designed under the guidance of the technical staff as a final evaluation tool to assess domestic league players’ readiness before the squad departs for a crucial training camp in Turkey. The primary objectives are to enhance on-field coordination, improve tactical cohesion, and simulate match conditions ahead of upcoming international commitments.

In a bid to foster unity and morale, the match will be open to a select audience, including Iranian football veterans, federation managers, club coaches, and media representatives. These attendees will have the opportunity to observe the team’s latest preparations firsthand and, as they did during the previous two intra-squad matches, provide vocal support to boost the players’ spirits.

Behind Closed Doors No Longer

Unlike much of the previous training session, which was held behind closed doors, tomorrow’s match represents a measured step toward transparency. The Football Federation Islamic Republic of Iran (FFIRI) has yet to officially announce when foreign-based players (legionnaires) will join the camp. However, speculation suggests that several of them will fly directly to Turkey after taking adequate rest following the conclusion of their respective club seasons.

Gholizadeh Ruled Out of World Cup

One confirmed absentee is Ali Gholizadeh, who will miss the 2026 FIFA World Cup entirely after suffering a serious injury during a league match for his Polish club, Lech Poznan. The winger’s absence is a significant blow to Iran’s attacking depth.

Azmoun’s Status Remains Uncertain

Meanwhile, the fate of star forward Sardar Azmoun is still shrouded in doubt. The player is reportedly fully fit and has featured in several matches for his club, Shabab Al Ahli of the UAE. Despite his physical readiness, Azmoun was notably overlooked for selection in Iran’s last two friendly internationals against Nigeria and Costa Rica, a decision that has sparked questions among fans and analysts regarding his standing within the squad and whether political pressure is playing a role in this episode. Amir Ghalenoei has, so far, on the sitiuation.

Italian Coach Antonio Gagliardi Abruptly Terminates Iran Contract, Returns to Europe

TEHRAN – In a surprising turn of events just months before the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Antonio Gagliardi, the Italian assistant coach of the Iran national football team, has unilaterally broken his contract with the Football Federation Islamic Republic of Iran (FFIRI) and returned to his home country with immediate effect, multiple sources confirm.

Gagliardi, born 11 August 1983, was appointed in November 2025 as a key tactical lieutenant to head coach Amir Ghalenoei. His departure, described by insiders as sudden and unexpected, leaves a significant void in Team Melli’s technical staff during a critical phase of World Cup preparation.

A Decorated European Pedigree

Before his stint in Iran, Gagliardi built a formidable reputation in European football. He previously served as a match analyst and assistant coach for the Italy national team, playing an instrumental behind-the-scenes role in the Azzurri’s triumphant UEFA Euro 2020 campaign. His analytical expertise and experience at the highest levels of the international game were seen as a major coup for Iranian football.

Why Tehran? The 2026 World Cup Ambition

When Ghalenoei secured Gagliardi’s services in late 2025, the move was hailed as a strategic masterstroke. With the 2026 FIFA World Cup on the horizon, the Iranian federation sought to inject modern European tactical methodology into Team Melli. Ghalenoei publicly expressed hope that Gagliardi’s experience would “enhance Iran’s chances and add significant value to the team’s tactics and preparation,” particularly in set-piece routines and in-game adaptability against top-tier opponents.

The Break: Why Now?

While the FFIRI has yet to release an official statement, reports from Italian football journalist Gianluca Di Marzio’s network suggest that Gagliardi’s decision was prompted by a flurry of interest from Serie B clubs. According to these sources, several second-division Italian sides have offered Gagliardi the opportunity to become their head coach—a promotion from his current assistant role.

The allure of a top job in his home country, combined with reported personal and professional adjustment challenges in Iran, appears to have accelerated his decision to unilaterally terminate the agreement.

Alin Dinka, Romanian goalkeepers’ coach.

What’s Next for Team Melli?

Despite this high-profile exit, the Iranian federation is moving to ensure continuity. The existing support structure for head coach Amir Ghalenoei remains in place. Team Melli’s coaching assistance will continue under the guidance of a diverse and experienced team, including:

  • Andranik Teymourian – The former Esteghlal and Bolton Wanderers midfielder, known for his leadership and tactical intelligence.
  • Rahman Rezaei – The ex-Messina and Livorno defender, who brings a wealth of Serie A defensive experience.
  • Alin Dinka : The Romanian goalkeepers coach, who previously worked for Tractor in the same capacity.
  • Saeed Alhoei – A rising figure within Iran’s coaching circles.
  • Homan Afazeli – The team’s analyst, who will now likely absorb many of the responsibilities previously held by Gagliardi.

Official Silence and Potential Fallout

As of press time, the FFIRI has neither confirmed nor denied the Italian’s departure. Legal experts note that a unilateral breach of contract could lead to financial penalties or a dispute referred to FIFA’s Dispute Resolution Chamber (DRC). However, given Gagliardi’s swift return to Europe and reported job offers, it appears the 43-year-old is willing to accept those consequences in pursuit of a head coaching role.

For Iran, the timing is far from ideal. With the 2026 World Cup draw potentially just weeks away, Ghalenoei must now rapidly recalibrate his technical team, proving once again that off-field turbulence remains an all-too-familiar companion for Team Melli on the road to the world stage.

End of Article

Iran to Face Gambia in May 2026 Friendly in Antalya

Team Melli will take on Gambia in an international friendly match on 29 May 2026 in Antalya, Turkey.

Iran have already secured their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. In contrast, Gambia have never qualified for a World Cup and currently rank 115th in the FIFA standings. This will be the first-ever meeting between the two nations at the international level.

For Iran, the friendly serves as a key preparation opportunity ahead of the world’s biggest football showpiece. Meanwhile, Gambia will use the match to gear up for their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

The game will take place at the same venue in Antalya where Iran previously faced Nigeria and Costa Rica.

According to Mehdi Taj, head of the Football Federation Islamic Republic of Iran (FFIRI), discussions are also underway with the Polish Football Association to arrange an additional friendly. Taj has personally reached out to his Polish counterpart, who proposed hosting the match in Poland. However, no final agreement has been reached yet.