Controversial Omission: Sardar Azmoun Excluded from Iran's World Cup Squad
Iran has officially announced its 26-man squad for the upcoming World Cup, with coach Amir Ghalenoei prioritizing the experience of Mehdi Taremi and Alireza Jahanbakhsh. However, a major talking point has emerged with the exclusion of prolific striker Sardar Azmoun. Azmoun, who has an impressive tally of 57 goals in 91 international appearances, has been notably absent from both the preliminary and final selections. This decision follows a public appeal for his inclusion from Iran's Vice President, Abdolkarim Hosseinzadeh. Reports suggest that Azmoun's omission stems from a perceived act of disloyalty to the government, having also been left out of the national team in March. Leading Iran's attack will be the 33-year-old Taremi, currently playing for Olympiacos, along with former Brighton & Hove Albion winger Jahanbakhsh. The tournament is scheduled to take place across the United States, Canada, and Mexico from 11 June to 19 July. Amid ongoing conflict with the US and Israel, the Iranian squad has faced months of uncertainty regarding travel and security. They will now set up their training camp in Tijuana, Mexico, after FIFA approved the relocation from Arizona. Iran's group matches will all occur on American soil: 15 June: vs New Zealand in Los Angeles 21 June: vs Belgium in Los Angeles 26 June: vs Egypt in Seattle Historically, Iran has never progressed beyond the group stage at the World Cup, but they aim to make history in this summer's tournament after previously competing against England and Wales in 2022.
Source: The Independent Sport - 2026-06-01