Key Winger Ruled Out Ahead of Tournament
Iran national football team have suffered a major setback ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after winger Ali Gholizadeh sustained a season-ending anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury.
The 30-year-old, who was expected to play a key role on the right flank, was injured while playing for Polish club Lech Poznań. Medical tests confirmed a torn ACL in his left knee following his withdrawal from a recent league match.
Surgery and Long Recovery Ahead
Lech Poznań confirmed that Gholizadeh will undergo surgery in the coming days, followed by several months of rehabilitation, ruling him out of the World Cup.
The injury represents a significant blow to Iran’s attacking options as they prepare for the global tournament.
Ongoing Uncertainty Around Preparations
Iran’s preparations continue under difficult conditions, with domestic football previously suspended following regional tensions. Players have been training in camps in Tehran, focusing on drills and internal matches.
Despite the challenges, FIFA President Gianni Infantino has stated that Iran will participate in the World Cup as scheduled.
Additional Concerns for Team Melli
There is also uncertainty surrounding striker Sardar Azmoun, who was omitted from recent squad selections amid reports of disciplinary issues.
Azmoun, Iran’s all-time leading scorer among active players, remains a key figure whose availability could be crucial to their World Cup hopes.
Group Stage Fixtures Confirmed
Iran are set to begin their World Cup campaign against New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15, followed by matches against Belgium and Egypt as part of their Group G fixtures.
With injuries and off-field issues mounting, Iran face a challenging build-up to the tournament.