Iran recall Sardar Azmoun after World Cup snub ahead of Asian Cup

Tehran,UPDATED: Sep 22, 2026 06:36 IST

Iran have recalled star striker Sardar Azmoun to the national team, four months after he was controversially left out of the World Cup squad. Coach Amir Ghalenoei has included the Dubai-based forward in his 26-man squad for friendlies against Uzbekistan on Thursday and Russia five days later.

Azmoun, 31, was omitted in May, reportedly because of a social media post that angered Iranian authorities during the ongoing war with the US and Israel. He now returns as Iran step up preparations for the Asian Cup, which begins in Saudi Arabia on January 7.

Azmoun has scored 57 goals in 91 international appearances. Reacting to his recall, he wrote on social media: "To be honest, I don't know how to put my feelings into words. From 2014 until today, I've lived so much in this jersey." He added, "I came, I went, I was left out, I came back ... but never, not even when I wasn't there, did I ever feel separated from the national team."

Iran drew with New Zealand, Belgium and Egypt at the World Cup, and narrowly missed out on reaching the knockout stage for the first time in seven appearances. Azmoun, who was pictured meeting Iranian Football Federation president Mehdi Taj on Sunday, said: "I missed the national team more than I ever showed. Today, when I found out I'd been called up again, my happiness was just like the first time." He added, "I am not angry with anyone, nor do I have anything to prove. I'm just glad I have the chance again to fight with all my heart for the country I love."

With the Asian Cup approaching, Azmoun's return gives Iran back an experienced forward for the upcoming friendlies against Uzbekistan and Russia after a four-month absence from the national side.

With PTI Inputs

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