Tag: Amir Ghalenoei

Age of Stagnation: Why Ghalenoei’s Conservative Selections Have Made Iran the Second-Oldest Team at the 2026 World Cup

PERSIAN VERSION
  • پیریِ مرگبار: چرا انتخاب‌های محافظه‌کارانهٔ قلعه‌نویی، ایران را دومین تیم پیر جهان در جام جهانی ۲۰۲۶ کرده است
    با نزدیک شدن به جام جهانی ۲۰۲۶، تمام تیم‌ها لیست نهایی بازیکنان خود را به کمیته برگزاری تحویل داده‌اند. طبق آمار منتشرشده از میانگین سنی هر تیم، تصویری روشن و برای برخی، هشداردهنده به دست آمده است:

Continue reading “Age of Stagnation: Why Ghalenoei’s Conservative Selections Have Made Iran the Second-Oldest Team at the 2026 World Cup” →

With the 2026 World Cup rapidly approaching, all participating nations have submitted their official player lists to the organizing committee. Recent data released on the average age of each squad has painted a telling, and for some, alarming picture. According to the records:

  • Panama (30.4 years)
  • Iran (30.3 years)
  • Colombia (30.1 years)

These three nations stand as the oldest teams in the competition. At the opposite end of the spectrum, the Ivory Coast boasts the youngest squad with an average age of just 25.8 years—a full 4.5 years younger than Team Melli.

Iran’s Aging Roster: A Symptom, Not a Coincidence

For Iranian fans and analysts, seeing their national team ranked as the second-oldest in the world is not merely a statistical curiosity. It is a glaring indictment of head coach Amir Ghalenoei’s philosophy, risk aversion, and failure to regenerate the squad since he took over in March 2023, barely three months after the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

On the surface, relying on experienced players might seem prudent for a team facing the likes of England and European powerhouses. Veterans bring composure, tactical discipline, and big-match know-how. However, the deeper problem is that under Ghalenoei, experience has become an excuse for exclusion, specifically, the systematic exclusion of young, dynamic, and technically gifted emerging talents.

Ghalenoei’s Core Failure: A Closed Door to Youth

The most damning charge against Ghalenoei is his inability, or outright refusal, to introduce a single player of lasting value to the national squad during his entire tenure. In nearly four years at the helm, spanning the AFC Asian Cup 2023, World Cup qualifiers and friendly matches, he has not blooded a promising young star who could credibly claim a starting spot in 2026.

Unlike predecessors who at least attempted transitions (e.g., Queiroz introducing Sardar Azmoun and Saman Ghoddos as youngsters, or even Branko Ivanković giving early caps to Ehsan Hajsafi), Ghalenoei has fallen back on the same core of aging, often injury-prone players. Names like Shoja Khalilzadeh (37), Ramin Rezaeian (36), and Ehsan Hajsafy (36) continue to receive call-ups, while talents such as:

  • Kasra Taheri
  • Mohammad Amin Hazbavi (defensive prodigy)
  • Saeid Saharkhizan (prolific young striker)
  • Javad Hosseinnejad

Are given token minutes that amount to little more than window dressing.

A Culture of Distrust and Fear

Ghalenoei’s selection patterns reveal a deep-seated distrust of youth, often rationalized in press conferences with vague phrases like “they are not ready” or “the pressure is too high.” But this is a smokescreen. The reality is a conservative, fear-driven approach: the coach prioritizes short-term results (avoiding a humiliating loss in a qualifier) over long-term development (giving a 21-year-old 45 minutes against a weaker Asian side).

This fear has paralyzed Iran’s natural footballing cycle. While Japan, Australia, and even Saudi Arabia have lowered their average age and injected pace and energy, Iran has remained static. The result is a squad that, by 2026, will rely on several players past their physical prime, easily exploited by faster, younger opponents in a condensed tournament schedule.

Impunity and Institutional Failure: The Role of Mehdi Taj and FFIRI

Yet, Ghalenoei alone is not the culprit. His job security, despite underwhelming performances and a visible lack of tactical evolution, is underwritten by the blind trust of Mehdi Taj, the president of the Football Federation Islamic Republic of Iran (FFIRI), and a notoriously silent, ineffective board.

The FFIRI has historically oscillated between micromanagement and neglect. Under Taj, the federation has abdicated its responsibility to challenge the head coach. No public questioning of Ghalenoei’s squad selection. No pressure to integrate U-23 players. No performance reviews with clear KPIs regarding player development. Instead, Ghalenoei operates with impunity, knowing that as long as Iran scrapes past Hong Kong or Turkmenistan, his position is secure.

This institutional complacency is catastrophic. It sends a message to every young player in the Persian Gulf Pro League: no matter how well you perform, you will not be trusted until you are nearly 30. That kills ambition, depresses the league’s competitive intensity, and accelerates the exodus of promising talent to Qatar or the UAE merely for playing time.

The Cost of Impunity

The shadow of doubt cast by Ghalenoei’s tenure extends far beyond the 2026 World Cup. Even if Iran manages a respectable performance (e.g., a single win or a draw against top-tier opposition), the underlying structural damage remains. By refusing to build for the future, Ghalenoei and the FFIRI are setting up Iranian football for a hard landing after the tournament.

When the current crop of 30-somethings retires en masse post-2026, there will be no experienced replacements—only a generation of 24-to-27-year-olds with fewer than ten caps and zero big-tournament experience. That is the hallmark of managerial negligence.

Conclusion: A Lost Cycle

The statistic that Iran is the second-oldest team at the 2026 World Cup is not a badge of honor. It is a funeral bell for a lost development cycle. Amir Ghalenoei’s distrust of young players, rooted in a conservative and fearful mindset, has denied a generation the chance to grow. And with Mehdi Taj’s FFIRI offering no oversight, there is no incentive to change.

Iranian football deserves a coach who sees youth as an asset, not a liability. Until Ghalenoei is held accountable, or replaced by someone willing to take calculated risks, Team Melli will remain old, slow, and predictable. And that is a far more dangerous opponent for Iran than any European powerhouse.

Ivory Coast, with an average age of 25.8 years, is known as the youngest team in the competition.

Ranking of the top 10 teams (oldest and youngest) The oldest teams in the 2026 World Cup:

1 – Panama 30.4 years
2 – Iran 30.3 years
3 – Colombia 30.1 years
4 – Cape Verde 29.7 years
5 – Qatar 29.4 years
6 – Brazil 29.2 years
7 – Scotland 29.2 years
8 – Argentina 29.1 years
9 – Congo 29.1 years
10 – Paraguay 29.0 years

The youngest teams in the 2026 World Cup:
1 – Ivory Coast 25.8 years
2 – Bosnia 26.0 years
3 – Ecuador 26.1 years
4 – Morocco 26.4 years
5 – Tunisia 26.6 years
6 – Spain 26.7 years
7 – South Africa 26.8 years
8 – Norway 26.8 years
9 – Algeria 26.9 years
10 – USA 26.9 years

PERSIAN VERSION
  • پیریِ مرگبار: چرا انتخاب‌های محافظه‌کارانهٔ قلعه‌نویی، ایران را دومین تیم پیر جهان در جام جهانی ۲۰۲۶ کرده است
    با نزدیک شدن به جام جهانی ۲۰۲۶، تمام تیم‌ها لیست نهایی بازیکنان خود را به کمیته برگزاری تحویل داده‌اند. طبق آمار منتشرشده از میانگین سنی هر تیم، تصویری روشن و برای برخی، هشداردهنده به دست آمده است:

Continue reading “Age of Stagnation: Why Ghalenoei’s Conservative Selections Have Made Iran the Second-Oldest Team at the 2026 World Cup” →

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.”

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’s Golden Era in Focus as AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027™ Draw Approaches

The road to AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027™ glory will be paved when the Final Draw is conducted at the historic Salwa Palace in Riyadh on Saturday.

Leading Iran’s delegation will be Amir Ghalenoei, the head coach of Team Melli, accompanied by Mehdi Kharati, the executive director of the national team. Ghalenoei is set to return to Iran on Monday, once Iran’s group-stage opponents are confirmed.

The teams will be divided into six groups, setting the stage for what promises to be another thrilling continental showdown.

This marks Iran’s 16th participation in the AFC Asian Cup—a record shared with Korea Republic. China PR sits third on the all-time list, with Saudi Arabia 2027 being their 14th appearance.

Japan’s Record

No team has won the AFC Asian Cup more times than Japan, with four titles. Saudi Arabia and Iran follow closely, each having lifted the trophy three times. However, while Japan’s last triumph came in 2011 and Saudi Arabia’s in 1996, Iran’s most recent title was in 1976—the crowning moment of a dynasty unlike any other.

Unbeaten in the Final

Iran (three appearances, three wins) and Qatar (two appearances, two wins) are the only sides to have reached multiple finals and emerged victorious every time. Iraq are the other team with a perfect final record, winning the competition in their sole final appearance (2007).

A Unique Record: Iran’s Unmatched 12-Year Reign (1968–1976)

No team in Asian Cup history has ever dominated like Iran did between 1968 and 1976. In that period, Team Melli achieved three consecutive titles—a feat no other nation has managed in the tournament’s history.

What makes this run even more extraordinary is the sheer perfection of their performance. Across three tournaments, Iran played 13 matches and won all 13—a 100% record that remains untouched. They scored 36 goals while conceding just 6, an average of nearly three goals per game and less than 0.5 conceded.

The 1976 campaign was particularly imperious: Iran did not concede a single goal throughout the entire tournament, capping their triumph with a 1–0 final victory over Kuwait.

This golden era also produced the first two hat-trick heroes in Asian Cup history—Hossein Kalani and Ali Jabbari—while a legend was forged in Parviz Gheleechkhani, who remains the only player to have lifted the Asian Cup trophy three consecutive times, a record that still stands today.

For 12 unforgettable years, Iran were unbeatable, unmatched, and unforgettable.

Ahead in Numbers

Iran (74 matches) and Korea Republic (73) are the only two teams to have played more than 70 games in AFC Asian Cup history. Iran also lead the charts for most wins excluding penalty shootouts (45), while China PR (21) hold the unfortunate record of most losses excluding penalties.

Ghalenoei: Iran can do something epic

6 May 2026
fifa.com

Team Melli head coach Amir Ghalenoei tells FIFA of his belief that IR Iran can advance to the knockout stage of a World Cup for the first time this summer.

  • IR Iran are set to make their seventh FIFA World Cup appearance
  • Aiming to advance to the knockout stage for the first time
  • Vastly experienced head coach Amir Ghalenoei speaks to FIFA

Thrice continental champions and semi-finalists at the previous two editions of the Asian Cup, IR Iran are a long-established juggernaut on their home patch. Translating that continental success to global impact has though proven a tougher than expected ask.

Regular participants they may be, with the nation having qualified for five of the past six editions of the FIFA World Cup™, but Iran are still surprisingly searching for a maiden appearance in the knockout stage.

Across half a dozen tournament outings, Team Melli has made an early exit on each occasion, with only three wins from their 18 matches to date.

The belief internally is that the current side, blessed with a fine generation of experienced talent, is the one poised to finally end that run of outs, as head coach Amir Ghalenoei explains to FIFA.

IR Iran players line up prior to a FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier against United Arab Emirates

“We’ve had many problems recently, but the players tried their best and made sacrifices. They worked so hard [through qualification] and sacrificed a lot, so it is my job to thank them.

“They can do something epic in the World Cup. They can do it, they have the technical potential to make this a World Cup to remember.”

Situated in a group containing a trio of continental heavyweights in the form of Belgium, Egypt and New Zealand, the going certainly won’t be easy. Ghalenoei can though take comfort from a qualification campaign that his side made fairly light work of, as well as a string of solid results thereafter.

Outside of the three co-hosts, Iran were the third nation to secure qualification, doing so on 20 March last year, five days after their AFC brethren Japan became the first nation to punch their ticket to North America.

Their only defeat in those 16 AFC preliminaries came at the hands of Qatar, after qualification was already secure. Since then, they’ve reached the final of the CAFA Nations Cup and drawn with fellow World Cup-bound nations Cabo Verde and Uzbekistan at an invitational tournament in the United Arab Emirates last year.

Another invitational event, held in Türkiye last month, saw a narrow loss at the hands of Nigeria, followed by a thumping 5-0 win against Costa Rica.

Set against the backdrop of an ongoing conflict that has shuttered the domestic league, forced the national team to play abroad and created numerous logistical issues, the veteran coach is proud of his team’s resolve.

IR Iran players celebrate qualification for the FIFA World Cup 2026

“I am really proud of this team for many reasons, because we’ve faced a difficult situation with all the problems and concerns, one of which was being unable to host games, but we were one of the first teams to qualify for the World Cup.

“Iran has a special talent whereby in tough times we find or create solutions. We managed to get to this level in spite of a difficult situation. Currently, there are two months to go until the World Cup, but we are in very difficult moment.

“My view though is that through football we can bring joy to families and Iranian society, both inside and outside the country. Football is a concept or project that can bring states and nations closer together. That can be national or global, like Argentina or Brazil having fans everywhere.

“Football in Iran is also like that and I hope that through football we can bring about national unity, despite the current problems in our country. We love our people and want to bring them happiness. I hope we can do that through football.

“My goal is for there to be no war anywhere in the world so people can enjoy football and enjoy their lives. This is my message through football to the world and my people.”

Born in Tehran, Ghalenoei has been at the coalface of Iranian football for close to half a century. As a player, he began his youth career at Rah Ahan, just a year after Iran’s debut World Cup outing, at Argentina 1978.

The bulk of his playing days were spent at Tehran giants Esteghlal, where the former midfielder earned more than a dozen national team caps, before transitioning into coaching in 1999, a year after Iran ended a 20-year wait to make a second World Cup appearance.

IR Iran coach Amir Ghalenoei gestures during a FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier with United Arab Emirates

Now 62, there is little that Ghalenoei hasn’t experienced in a career that has risen and fallen with the concurrent highs and lows of Iranian football.

Set against that vast well of experience, it is notable that, in spite of the obstacles the team faces, Ghalenoei is adamant that Iran has the capability to write a new chapter in their footballing history this northern summer.

“We want to create some great memories at this World Cup. We’re ready with the experience that the team has from previous World Cups to make it through to the knock-out round for the first time. We won’t be satisfied with just the group stage but I want us to play good football, not just try to get results.

“I also want to thank our wonderful fans, both inside and outside the country, who have stuck by the national team. They are the reason we managed to qualify. I probably had the least important role of anyone.”

Mahroughi still hopeful to join Team Melli camp

Ehsan Mahroughi, a striker playing for Foolad Khuzestan club, says he was unable to attend the Team Melli training camp due to a respiratory illness.

The 27-year-old striker Mahroughi was one of the excellent players in the Foolad Khuzestan coached by former Team Melli player, Yaha Golmohammadi. The player was invited to the Team Melli camp by Amir Ghalenoeif, but had to withdraw due to a respiratory illness.
He was replaced by Pouria Shahrabadi, a player from Golgohar Sirjan.

Mahrooghi told Tasnim: “I contracted a viral illness and had trouble breathing, so I was unable to participate in the national team’s training. This was bad luck for me, and I would have liked to be in the camp. I am in a much better condition now, and I hope to be added to the national team camp soon after I fully recover.”

The camp is active in Tehran, with all the invited players on the roster taking part in training.

Mehdi Taj “Iran Ready for World Cup, despite US government hostalities”

The head of the Football Federation Islamic Republic of Iran (FFIRI) has addressed the situation of the national football team regarding the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, expressing deep concern over American hostility while reaffirming Iran’s determination to prepare vigorously for the tournament.

“Given the evils of the American authorities, we do not see a favorable prospect for holding the World Cup under current conditions,” the FFIRI chief stated. “Nevertheless, we are preparing ourselves for a strong and honorable presence in these competitions.”

He confirmed that the list of national team players for the upcoming camp has been announced, with training set to begin Monday at the national teams’ camp in Tehran. “Our effort is to ensure that there is no disruption to the national team’s preparation process,” he added.

Common Goal: World Cup Qualification and Honor

Referring to Team Melli’s objectives, the FFIRI head emphasized national unity: “All our efforts are to prepare the national team for a strong presence on the path to qualifying for the World Cup. The federation, the country’s sports complex, and the people all support the national team. Our common goal is to advance and participate honorably in the World Cup.”

Request to Move Matches to Mexico. No Final Decision Yet

Regarding the FFIRI’s formal request to change the venue for Iran’s matches from the United States to Mexico, the official provided an update: “Requests have been made, and follow-ups are ongoing regarding moving the venue of the games to Mexico. However, FIFA has already carried out processes such as ticket sales, the lottery, and stadium determinations. Any change requires extensive coordination. We are following up so that this important step can be taken if possible.”

He clarified that no final decision has been made, and the outcome depends on FIFA’s cooperation and security assurances from host authorities.
The FIFA President has already confirmed that there is no chance of Iran’s matches being moved to Mexico.

Warm-up Match with Spain Still Under Review

On the possibility of a friendly match with Spain, the FFIRI head said: “The match with Spain has not yet been finalized for cancellation. We are still discussing whether the conditions for holding this warm-up match will be met. This issue is being followed up, and an announcement will be made if it is finalized.”

No Interference in Player Selection – Denis Eckert Addition Planned

Addressing rumors about Sardar Azmoun’s invitation to the national team camp, the FFIRI chief stressed: “The head of the federation does not interfere in the selection or invitation of any player. The selection of players, determining the main squad, and selecting warm-up opponents are within the authority of the national team head coach. The federation does not interfere in which player must be in the permanent squad or in technical decisions. We provide the frameworks and facilities; the technical decisions are the responsibility of the head coach.”
The exclusion of Sardar Azmoun from Iran’s last two friendlies against Nigeria and Costa Rica, allegedly over a social media post showing him with the Ruler of Dubai, has become the catalyst for what many view as a politically motivated decision. To date, no official explanation has been provided for his absence. Neither the FFIRI, head coach Amir Ghalenoei, nor any other authoritative source has offered a reason for sidelining Team Melli’s second-highest all-time scorer.

The lack of transparency has fueled speculation, especially given that Azmoun is now fully fit and is set to play in the AFC Champions League Elite semi-final on Monday.

Mehdi Taj also confirmed a new addition: “We have planned to add a striker from Belgium, Denis Eckert, to the national team.”

Amir Ghalenoei

Iran’s Parliament Pushes for World Cup Participation, but Final Decision Hinges on U.S. Security Assurances

Tehran – Amid widespread popular enthusiasm and a clear political will to compete on the global stage, Iran’s Parliamentary Cultural Commission has confirmed that a specialized committee is actively reviewing the conditions for Team Melli’s potential participation in the FIFA World Cup 2026 in the United States. However, officials stress that no final decision has been reached, and any move forward is contingent on binding security guarantees from hostile U.S. authorities.

Strong Domestic Desire to Compete

Speaking to reporters, Ahmad Rastineh, spokesman for the Islamic Consultative Assembly’s Cultural Commission, underscored that both the Iranian public and political establishment are keenly determined to see Iran’s national team at the World Cup. Following a recent meeting with Ahmad Donyamali, Minister of Sports and Youth, and his deputies, Rastineh noted that participation in the 2026 World Cup is viewed as a matter of national pride and sporting excellence.

“The meeting extensively discussed the need for better planning to prepare national teams for Asian and world competitions, as well as securing future Olympic quotas,” Rastineh said. “Given the immense importance of the World Cup, detailed discussions were held with the minister and commission members. The popular demand and political inclination to participate are very strong, and we are exploring every avenue to make this happen.”

No Final Decision: Awaiting U.S. Assurances

Despite the widespread desire to attend the tournament, Rastineh made it clear that a final decision has not yet been made. The primary obstacle remains the absence of reliable security guarantees from U.S. authorities, whom Iranian officials characterize as a hostile government.

“In light of the multifaceted nature of these competitions and the conditions that occurred during past tensions—specifically the hostile atmosphere created by U.S. authorities—the need to form a specialized working group was emphasized,” Rastineh explained. “It was decided that a final decision will be made soon, but only after receiving concrete assurances from American officials regarding the safety and dignity of Iran’s national team delegation, including players, coaches, and accompanying personnel.”

He added that until such guarantees are provided and thoroughly vetted, the Islamic Republic will not commit to sending Team Melli to the United States, regardless of the strong popular and political inclination to participate.

Looking Ahead

The specialized committee will continue its review, weighing the passionate demands of Iranian football fans against the necessity of securing firm commitments from U.S. authorities. For now, Iran’s World Cup hopes remain alive, but officially on hold.

Meanwhile, Team Melli held its first training session under Amir Ghalenoei in preparation for the World Cup. 30 domestic league players are involved in the training camp. Iran matches are to be held in Los Angeles and Seattle.

Team Melli Finalizes June Friendly Schedule; Spain Talks Ongoing as Panama Emerges as Backup Plan

The Iranian national football team, currently finalizing preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, is set to play two official international friendly matches during the June FIFA window. As part of the buildup, Amir Ghalenoei’s squad will first travel to Turkey in May for a preparatory training camp, which will include several matches against club sides in addition to the scheduled national team fixtures.

The Football Federation of the Islamic Republic of Iran (FFIRI) is currently evaluating a shortlist of potential opponents. CONCACAF nations, the Dominican Republic, Nicaragua, and El Salvador, are under serious consideration, alongside two or three European countries. Negotiations with Spain remain active, though a final agreement has yet to be reached.

Additionally, Team Melli is expected to play a friendly match on American soil as part of its acclimatization for the tournament co-hosted by the United States.

The federation’s plans have, however, encountered a hiccup regarding the previously proposed match against Puerto Rico. Federation requests have reportedly pushed that fixture to the verge of cancellation. As a contingency, the FFIRI has opened talks with the Panamanian Football Federation. Should the Puerto Rico match fall through officially, Panama will step in as the replacement opponent.

Team Melli will start a local training camp in Tehran on Monday, 20th April, utilizing the suspension of the domestic league.

Team Melli stats training with 30 local players.

With the postponement of the Premier League competitions, and to facilitate the Team Melli preparation program for the FIFA World Cup 2026, the squad will commence it training sessions with immidiate effect.

Accordingly, Amir Ghalenoei , head coach of the Iranian national team, invited 30 players to this stage of training. The names of the invited players are as follows:

The invited players must introduce themselves to the technical staff at the national team camp at 2:00 PM tomorrow, Monday, April 20, according to the federation website.

#Name POSTCLUBage
GOALKEEPERS
1BEIRANVAND, Alireza #1GKTractor33
2KHALIFA, MohammadGKAluminium Arak21
3HOSSEINI, Seyed HosseinGKSepahan33
4NIAZMAND, Payam #12GKPersepolis31
DEFENDERS
5ABARGHOUEI, Hossein #3DFPersepolis29
6AGHASI, Aref #20DFEsteghlal29
7YOUSEFI, Arya #18DFSepahan23
8ESMAELIFAR, DanialDFTractoe33
9EIRI, DanialDFMalavan22
10HAJSAFI, Ehsan #23DFSepahan36
11KANANI-ZADEGAN, Hossein #13DFPersepolis32
12KHALILZADEH, Shojaa #4DFTractor36
13MOHAMMADI, Milad #5DFPersepolis32
14REZAEIAN, Ramin #23DFEsteghlal36
15HARDANI, SalehDFEsteghlal27
16NEMATI, Ali #3DFFoolad Khuzestan30
17NOORAFKAN, Omid #21DFSepahan29
MIDFILED
18MOHEBBI, MasoudMFKhybar Khorramabad21
19TORABI, MehdiMFTractor30
20HAJI EYDI, ArefMFSepahan27
21MOHEBI, MehdiMFSepahan26
22RAZZAGHINIA, AmirmohammadMFEsteghlal20
23CHESHMI, RouzbehMFEsteghlal32
FORWARDS
24ALIPOUR, AliFWPersepolis31
25HASHEMNEJAD, Mehdi #17FWTractor24
26HOSSEINZADEH, Amir Hossein #10FWTractor25
27MAHMOUDI, AmirHosseinFWPersepolis19
28HABIBINEJAD , HadiFWCadormalo Ardakan30
29TAHERI, Kasra #27FWPeykan19
30MAHROUGHI, EhsanFWShams Azar28