Iran’s preparations for the upcoming World Cup have been overshadowed by political tensions, with reports that one of the country’s most prominent players has been dropped from the national team.
According to CNN Sports, striker Sardar Azmoun was removed from the squad after authorities interpreted a recent social media post as an act of disloyalty. The decision, if confirmed, would leave Iran without one of its most experienced forwards heading into the tournament.
Azmoun, 31, has been a central figure for the national team for more than a decade, scoring 57 goals in 91 appearances since his debut in 2014. He currently plays club football for Shabab Al-Ahli in the United Arab Emirates and has previously featured for clubs including Zenit Saint Petersburg, Bayer Leverkusen and AS Roma.
The controversy stems from an Instagram post in which Azmoun appeared alongside Dubai’s ruler, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The image drew criticism in Iran amid heightened regional tensions.
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State-linked outlet Fars News Agency cited an unnamed source within the team as saying Azmoun had been expelled. The report has not been independently confirmed, and Iran’s football federation has not publicly commented on the matter.
Azmoun later removed the post, but criticism continued on state television. Football commentator Mohammad Misaghi said: “It’s unfortunate that you don’t have enough sense to understand what kind of behavior is appropriate at a given time.”
He added that players who represent the national team must demonstrate conduct befitting the role, suggesting Azmoun’s actions fell short of that expectation.
The situation unfolds against a broader backdrop of political strain that has already cast doubt over Iran’s participation in the World Cup, which is set to be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada.
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Separate reports from Iranian media have also alleged financial measures targeting several players based abroad, though these claims remain unverified.
Tensions have also surfaced within other parts of Iranian football. Earlier this year, members of the women’s national team sought asylum in Australia after facing criticism at home for not singing the national anthem before a match. Some later returned to Iran.
Despite the uncertainty, Iran’s men’s team is still scheduled to play international friendlies in the coming weeks as part of its tournament preparations.
Sources: CNN Sports, Fars News Agency
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