Tasnim - Iran great Ali Daei says the future is bright for Iran, as Team Melli looks to get through the group phase at a World Cup for the first time.


Daei, who is lauded as Iran’s greatest player following a career that saw him crowned Asia’s Player of the Year in 1999 and play for Bayern Munich and Hertha Berlin, said the highly rated Azmoun can use this summer’s tournament to further his career.

“We have young strikers and the future will belong to them, especially Sardar Azmoun because he’s really young. He can have a bright future. I’m hoping he can choose the right route, that he can go in the right direction in the future for himself and also for our national team,” Daei told Reuters.

Iran has been drawn in Group B alongside Portugal, Spain and Morocco at the June 14 to July 15 World Cup.

“The World Cup could be a jumping point for many players to change everything,” said Daei. “I’m quite confident Sardar can make a move from Russia to a top level club.”

“We have a good team, we’re not an easy team for any Asian team to play against and if we can keep up our standards then there’s no reason why we can’t do well,” Saipa coach added.