Iran have announced their squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with one of the country’s most experienced forwards, Sardar Azmoun, notably absent from the final selection.
The decision has attracted significant attention, especially given Azmoun’s impressive international record. The 30 year old attacker has scored 57 goals in 91 appearances for the national team and has been one of Iran’s most influential players over the past decade.
Reports suggest that tensions between Azmoun and Iranian authorities may have played a role in his exclusion. Earlier this year, the striker, who currently represents Shabab Al Ahli in the United Arab Emirates, shared a photograph with UAE ruler Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The post reportedly caused dissatisfaction among officials during a period of heightened regional tensions involving Iran, the United States and Israel.
Azmoun was initially omitted from Iran’s preliminary group, and head coach Amir Ghalenoei has once again chosen not to include him as the nation prepares for football’s biggest tournament.
Despite uncertainty surrounding Iran’s participation, the team will compete in the World Cup, which begins on June 11 and is being jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico. Iran have established their tournament base in Mexico and are preparing for group stage fixtures against New Zealand on June 15, Belgium on June 21 and Egypt on June 26.
The squad still contains several experienced names. Veteran striker Mehdi Taremi, currently playing for Olympiacos, has been selected, while former Brighton winger Alireza Jahanbakhsh also earned a place in the travelling party.
Although Iran possess a talented roster, the absence of a proven goalscorer like Azmoun will remain one of the biggest talking points as the team heads into the 2026 World Cup.
