IRAN have reportedly expelled one of their top strikers ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
The player was judged to have acted in a disloyal manner to the government during the ongoing conflict after pictures emerged of him with the leader of Dubai.
Sardar Azmoun, previously described as the Iranian Messi, posted a photo on Instagram of him shaking hands with the leader of Dubai, Mohammed bin Rashid.
Iranian media outlets report that the 31-year-old is unlikely to feature for his country any time soon.
The forward – who has previously been linked with Premier League leaders Arsenal – plays for Shabab Al Ahli in the UAE Pro League.
He was criticised on state television on Thursday night by football pundit Mohammad Misaghi.
He said: “It’s unfortunate that you don’t have enough sense to understand what kind of behaviour is appropriate at a given time.”
He continued to slam the striker: “We should not mince words with such people. They should be told that they are not worthy of wearing the national team jersey.
“We have no patience for this sulking and childish behaviour. National team players should be people who proudly belt out the national anthem and deserve to wear the Iran jersey.”
While Azmoun might be out of Iran’s plans – the whole team might be absent at the 2026 World Cup.
BEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERS
This is due to the ongoing conflict with host nation the USA.
President Donald Trump previously said that it would not be “appropriate” for Iran to compete because of reasons surrounding “their own life and safety”.
Mexico has offered to host Iran’s games – but this could cause major issues.
Iran’s football federation are yet to confirm whether Azmoun is definitely expelled from the national team.
However various news sources within the country are indicating that he will be.
Iran are set to face Nigeria and Costa Rica in the upcoming international break.
