Mohammad Mehdi Zare, the strong and tall defender of Persepolis, has become one of the key players of his team in the new season of the Iranian Premier League. His transfer from the Russian league to Persepolis last summer came with much hope and expectation. While Zare was part of the starting lineup for Persepolis at the beginning of the season and showed good performances, this young defender faced a major challenge: not being called up to the national team for the recent friendly matches.
Recurring Troubles for Zare
In the early weeks of the current season, Zare settled well into the Persepolis lineup and managed to catch the attention of Amir Ghalenoei, the national team coach. He was called up to the national team camp, but during both friendly matches in September, he only sat on the bench and did not get a minute on the field. This situation reminds him of his bitter experience last year when he was also called up for friendly matches against Tanzania and Russia but remained far from playing opportunities. Now, this young defender has watched all 90 minutes of the game from the bench for the fourth consecutive time.
Read more: Iran's national football team faces Russia with Ghalenoei's changes
Zare's Role in Persepolis Defense
Despite these setbacks with the national team, Mohammad Mehdi Zare is recognized as one of the highest quality defenders in the Premier League. Alongside Mohammad Hossein Kanaanian, he plays a key role in strengthening Persepolis's defense and works tirelessly for his team's success. While Amir Ghalenoei has used defenders like Shoja Khalilzadeh, Ali Naimati, Saman Fallah, and even Saleh Hardani in various positions in the recent two friendly matches, Zare still awaits an opportunity to showcase his abilities.
This situation not only reflects Zare's challenges in reaching the national team's main lineup but may also affect his morale and motivation. Zare must cope with this longing and disappointment while continuing his work at Persepolis. His teammates also hope that with the continuation of this successful trend, an opportunity will arise for him to play in national games and demonstrate his capabilities.
Read more: The Football Federation reported on the national team's challenges in the current FIFA window · Amir Ghalenoei: The match against Russia is an opportunity to test tactics
