Mehdi Taj, the head of the Football Federation of Iran, has spoken publicly about the current state of Team Melli, the challenges facing the national team ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, now less than 80 days away, and the ongoing complexities surrounding Iran’s participation in Asian club competitions.
World Cup Venue Uncertainty
Addressing FIFA’s apparent reluctance to approve the relocation of Iran’s 2026 World Cup matches to Mexico, Taj acknowledged the logistical difficulties involved. “Everything requires its own preparations, and delays are inevitable,” he said. “Moving matches to another country brings its own set of complications.” He confirmed that the national team will play two friendlies in Turkey during March, with the players to be announced in due course.
A Call for Passion and Resilience
Taj emphasized that the national team must reflect the spirit and enthusiasm of the Iranian people, particularly given the extraordinary circumstances the nation is enduring. “The passion that the people have must also be visible in the national team,” he stated. “The people who proudly remain present in their fields under bombardment will not accept the Football Federation allowing lethargy or complacency to creep into the national teams.”
On Sardar Azmoun’s Status
Regarding the situation of star striker Sardar Azmoun, following rumors that he had been dismissed from the national team setup, Taj declined to comment on individual cases but stressed the collective identity of the squad. “I will not speak about individuals,” he said. “The national team must represent these people. Ninety percent of the team is already aligned with this principle, particularly our legionnaires and the head coach. This approach will continue to be reinforced.”
(NOTE: Azmoun was excluded from the latest list announced today.)
AFC Club Competition Representatives
Turning to domestic matters, Taj provided an update on Iran’s representatives for next season’s Asian club competitions. “The AFC sent us a letter today requesting that we announce Iran’s representatives for the upcoming Asian Elite League and AFC Champions League 2,” he explained. “We informed them that the Iranian champion has not yet been determined. The league organization has made a decision, which we will announce once it has been approved by the Football Federation.”