Rewritten Title: Persepolis at a Crossroads: Negotiations Intensify for Osmar’s Potential Return
Article:
A Managerial Dilemma for Iran’s Football Giant
Tehran – Persepolis Football Club, one of Iran’s most prominent and popular teams, finds itself navigating a critical juncture regarding its managerial future. While current coach Vahid Hashemian has been granted a stay of execution for the upcoming match against Foolad, the club’s board is actively engaged in negotiations to secure a potential successor.
The primary target, Branko Ivankovic, has officially declined the offer, stating a lack of desire to coach any club at this time and potentially signaling a departure from management altogether. With this door closed, the club’s focus has shifted decisively.
Osmar Vieira: The Leading Contender
According to reports, the clear frontrunner is former coach Osmar Vieira. Peyman Hadi, the club’s supervisor, has initiated direct talks with the Brazilian manager, and these discussions are ongoing.
However, a potential deal is not straightforward. Sources indicate that Osmar remains displeased with the club’s previous financial dealings, specifically why his contract was not renewed on better terms while a significantly higher salary was reportedly offered to another manager, Ismail Kartal. He is said to be well-informed about the club’s recent financial statements and is expected to command a high salary for any potential return.
The Sticking Points: Finance and Squad Strength
The negotiations have reportedly centered on a financial offer of approximately one million dollars, matching his previous contract with Buriram United. Persepolis has also included a potential 20% bonus for winning the championship. While the club might be willing to increase its offer marginally, Osmar is carefully considering the proposal and may be waiting for an improved financial package.
Beyond the monetary aspect, the Brazilian coach is conducting his own due diligence. He is meticulously reviewing the current Persepolis squad, assessing its balance and its ability to meet the high expectations of the massive fanbase. He has been made aware of deficiencies in several positions and the injury-prone nature of some key players. Osmar is understood to be weighing the risks of taking over a team that may not be fully equipped for immediate success, which could impact his standing with the supporters.
Internal Club Dynamics
In a significant development, the entire Persepolis board, including team manager Afshin Peyrovani, recently participated in a live video call with Osmar. Following the call, the board sought Peyrovani’s assessment of the candidate.
During internal meetings, Peyrovani highlighted certain challenges within the team, noting that some players’ efforts have been lacking and that disciplinary issues have peaked. He also emphasized that the team was not optimally assembled at the start of the season, with several of Hashemian’s initial requests for new signings going unaddressed. However, he has now prepared a list of desired reinforcements for the mid-season transfer window.
Peyrovani expressed confidence that a change in management could restore stability to the team and the stands, fostering the unity needed to secure positive results in crucial upcoming matches.
The Path Forward
The consensus within the Persepolis board appears to be that if Osmar Vieira ultimately declines the offer, Vahid Hashemian will be granted a game-by-game reprieve, starting with the match against Foolad, to demonstrate an improved trajectory for the team.
The coming days are crucial for the future of Persepolis, as the club seeks to resolve its managerial situation and build a foundation for success in the competitive Iranian football landscape.
