Title: Esteghlal’s Turanian Set for Mid-Season Return as Military Service Concludes
Tehran – Esteghlal Football Club is preparing to welcome back one of its contracted players, Saman Turanian, as the young right-back’s military service commitment with FC Malavan concludes.
A Planned Return
Turanian, who has two seasons remaining on his contract with the capital club, was unable to secure an early release from his loan spell at Malavan this past summer due to his ongoing military service obligations. With that service period now nearing its end, the defender is officially slated to rejoin the “Blues” during the upcoming mid-season break.
Navigating the Roster
The player’s return is procedurally straightforward. Since he was only on loan, his reintegration into the Esteghlal squad is not affected by the closed transfer window. However, his arrival presents Head Coach Ricardo Sá Pinto with a tactical consideration. The team currently boasts significant depth in the right-back position, utilizing experienced national team players Saleh Hardani and Ramin Rezaeian. Accommodating three specialized players for a single role presents a clear logistical challenge for the coaching staff.
Pathways Forward
Turanian’s versatility could prove to be the key to securing his place. His ability to potentially cover other defensive positions may convince Sá Pinto to include him in the main squad. Should a role not be immediately available, the club retains the option to loan him out again, either to Malavan or another top-flight team, for the remainder of the season, ensuring the player continues to gain valuable match experience.
For now, Turanian remains fully focused on his final matches with Malavan before the winter break, with his ultimate status for the second half of the season to be determined when the transfer window reopens.