Iran Coach Slams Unethical Treatment of National Team Amidst Ongoing Controversy
Iran's coach, Amir Ghalenoei, has criticized the treatment of his team at the World Cup, describing it as "unethical" and fearing it may set a precedent. Due to political tensions between the US and Iran, Team Melli has faced strict limitations, including a last-minute relocation of their training camp from Arizona to Mexico.
The team arrived in the US less than 18 hours before their match against Belgium, forcing them to cut their training in half. Ghalenoei expressed frustration, stating that even significant financial investment cannot compensate for the injustices faced by his team. He implied that the US government is responsible for the team's difficulties, but praised FIFA President Gianni Infantino for his efforts to ease the restrictions.
Iran is currently tied in Group G, and Ghalenoei acknowledged that the team's situation has affected their performance. Midfielder Saeid Ezatolahi noted that the team's commuting schedule has hindered their ability to focus on planning. Unlike other teams with long commutes, Iran's travel is heavily restricted, with limited time allowed in the US before and after matches.
The team is also missing key support staff and family members due to denied visas. Ghalenoei emphasized that the team wants to focus on playing soccer, without being drawn into political disputes. He hopes that their experience will not be repeated with other teams in the future, calling for fair treatment and an end to the "unethical" behavior they have faced.
The team arrived in the US less than 18 hours before their match against Belgium, forcing them to cut their training in half. Ghalenoei expressed frustration, stating that even significant financial investment cannot compensate for the injustices faced by his team. He implied that the US government is responsible for the team's difficulties, but praised FIFA President Gianni Infantino for his efforts to ease the restrictions.
Iran is currently tied in Group G, and Ghalenoei acknowledged that the team's situation has affected their performance. Midfielder Saeid Ezatolahi noted that the team's commuting schedule has hindered their ability to focus on planning. Unlike other teams with long commutes, Iran's travel is heavily restricted, with limited time allowed in the US before and after matches.
The team is also missing key support staff and family members due to denied visas. Ghalenoei emphasized that the team wants to focus on playing soccer, without being drawn into political disputes. He hopes that their experience will not be repeated with other teams in the future, calling for fair treatment and an end to the "unethical" behavior they have faced.
News, Global