Exclusion of Azmoun from the World Cup Ignites Controversy in Iran

The absence of Iranian striker Sardar Azmoun from the preliminary list of the Iranian national team for the 2026 World Cup has sparked widespread controversy within the country. There is a strong belief that the decision is not solely due to technical reasons but also relates to his political stances and activity on social media.

Azmoun is considered one of the most prominent stars of Iranian football in recent years, having scored 57 goals in 91 international matches. He has also had professional experiences with notable European clubs such as Bayer Leverkusen, Roma, and Zenit Saint Petersburg.

The player had entered into an indirect confrontation with the Iranian authorities since the 2022 protests following the death of Mahsa Amini, as he posted a message supporting Iranian women on his official accounts, affirming his readiness to sacrifice his place in the national team.

Criticism against him also increased after a photo was published of him with Dubai's ruler, Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, at a time when political relations are experiencing regional tension, prompting Iranian media to discuss his exclusion for reasons beyond football.

Although the coach of the Iranian national team, Amir Ghalenoei, emphasized that his selections were made based on "technical reasons," many within Iran are not convinced by this justification, especially given the limited offensive options available to the team.

Azmoun was also publicly attacked by Iranian media personality Mohammad Misaqei, who claimed that the player "does not deserve to wear the national team jersey." In response, the striker affirmed that his heart will remain with Iran no matter the circumstances.

On the other hand, voices emerged calling for the player's return to the national team, most notably Iranian Vice President Abdolkarim Hosseinzadeh, who urged maintaining the unity of the nation's people and not severing ties with Azmoun.

Nevertheless, his chances of returning before the start of the tournament seem difficult, especially with Iran preparing to face strong matches against the teams of New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt in the group stage of the 2026 World Cup.