Tehran, Iran – Web Desk: Iran’s national football team has suffered a significant setback ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026 after key winger Alireza Ghalehzadeh was ruled out due to a serious knee injury.
The player sustained the injury while representing Polish club Lech Poznań during a domestic match. Medical tests confirmed a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his left knee.
His club said Ghalehzadeh will undergo surgery in the coming days and faces several months of rehabilitation, effectively ruling him out of the upcoming tournament.
The absence is considered a major blow for Iran, as the player was regarded as an important part of the national squad.
Meanwhile, football activities inside Iran have reportedly been affected amid heightened regional tensions involving the United States and Israel, although limited training sessions continue in Tehran.
Reports also suggest uncertainty over the return of star forward Sardar Azmoun, who was previously excluded from the squad following recent developments.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has confirmed that Iran will participate in the World Cup as scheduled and is set to face New Zealand in its opening match on June 15.
