Mehdi Torabi’s shocking revelations about the deep-rooted corruption, favoritism, and nepotism in Team Melli’s player selection process have confirmed long-standing suspicions of a powerful “mafia” controlling the national team. His accusations not only expose the unprofessional and unethical environment under Amir Ghalenoei’s leadership but also raise serious questions about whether meritocracy even exists in Iranian football.
Torabi’s Defiance: A Player Breaking the Silence
As Team Melli prepares for its final 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Qatar and North Korea matches that are mere formalities after Iran’s early qualification—the real drama is unfolding off the pitch. Mehdi Torabi, one of Iran’s most consistent wingers at the club level, was mysteriously absent from the national team camp without explanation. Instead of quietly fading away, Torabi launched a scathing attack on the corrupt system dictating Team Melli’s selections.
In a rare and bold interview, Torabi declared:
“The criteria for invitations and playing time in Team Melli are not based on merit or performance. Instead, personal relationships, favoritism, and unsporting factors decide who gets called up. This is a disgrace to our football and a betrayal of the fans who deserve better.”
He further challenged Ghalenoei directly:
“Tell me, what technical reason is there that I was invited now but not for the last two camps ? I represent many players who are ignored for the wrong reasons.”
Torabi’s defiance has sent shockwaves through Iranian football, forcing fans and media to confront an open secret: Team Melli’s locker room is controlled by a shadowy network of players, agents, and officials who prioritize loyalty and interest over talent.
The “Gang” Running Team Melli: Player Power at Its Worst
Torabi’s claims align with years of rumors about player dominance, backroom deals, and political maneuvering in the national team. Reports have long suggested that a select group of senior players—backed by influential figures outside the federation—dictate call-ups, tactics, and even coaching appointments.
- Past incidents support Torabi’s allegations:
- Ehsan Hajsafi, Ramin Rezaeian, and Karim Ansarifard—despite declining form—were repeatedly called up due to their connections rather than performance.
- Ahmad Noorollahi, one of Iran’s best midfielders in recent years, was blacklisted after clashing with the coaching staff, proving that dissent is punished, not debated.
- Young talents are ignored in favor of aging veterans who maintain influence in the locker room.
Ghalenoei, aware of this toxic dynamic, has failed to dismantle the system. Instead, he has compromised, fearing the same fate as Dragan Skočić, who was ousted after losing the dressing room.
Ghalenoei’s Hypocrisy: A Coach Who Talks Tough but Bends to Pressure
When Ghalenoei returned as head coach, he promised to end player dominance, saying:
“I will fight player-centricity. Those who know me understand I don’t tolerate indiscipline.”
Yet, under his watch:
- The same clique of players continues to enjoy preferential treatment.
- Critical voices (like Torabi) are silenced or exiled.
- Transparency in selections remains nonexistent.
Now, Ghalenoei faces his biggest crisis. Will he:
- Investigate Torabi’s claims and clean up the system?
- Punish Torabi to please the “mafia” and maintain his job?
- Continue pretending nothing is wrong until another scandal erupts?
The Bigger Problem: A Federation Rotting from the Top
Torabi’s outburst is not just about one player—it’s a symptom of systemic corruption in Iranian football. The FFIRI (Iranian Football Federation) has long been accused of nepotism, financial mismanagement, and political interference. Until the federation is held accountable, no coach, no matter how strong, can truly reform Team Melli.
What Happens Next?
- If Ghalenoei ignores Torabi’s claims, he risks losing credibility and fan support.
- If he punishes Torabi, he proves that truth-tellers are not welcome in Iranian football.
- If he actually reforms the system, he may face resistance from powerful figures who benefit from the status quo.
One thing is clear: Mehdi Torabi has exposed the rot in Team Melli. The question now is, will anyone in power care enough to fix it? Or will Iranian football continue to be a playground for the connected few while true talent rots on the sidelines?
The fans deserve answers. The players deserve fairness. Iranian football deserves better.