Title: Esteghlal Team Honors Beloved Former Captain Voria Ghafouri in Heartwarming Gesture
A Surprise Celebration
In a display of team camaraderie and respect, the players of Esteghlal football club organized a surprise birthday celebration for Voria Ghafouri prior to the start of a recent training session. The event highlighted the deep bonds within the club and the enduring legacy of one of its most iconic figures.
A Legacy in Blue
Ghafouri, a prominent defender in Iranian football, became a central figure at Esteghlal, renowned for his exceptional dedication to the club. His long-standing commitment, playing for years in the iconic blue jersey, cemented his status as one of the most popular captains in the team’s storied history. His leadership was pivotal during a period of significant achievement for the club.
A Triumphant Chapter
Under the management of Farhad Majidi, Esteghlal secured a monumental victory, clinching the Persian Gulf Pro League title in an unbeaten campaign. It was Ghafouri who, wearing the captain’s armband, had the honor of lifting the valuable championship trophy, a moment that fulfilled the long-held aspirations of the club’s supporters.
A New Role and a Warm Welcome
Following that triumphant season, Ghafouri departed the team for personal reasons. However, his connection to Esteghlal has been reaffirmed this season. By the decision of the team’s Portuguese head coach, Ricardo Sá Pinto, Ghafouri has returned to the blue-clad squad, now serving in a new capacity as a coach and assistant to the manager. His return was warmly marked by the birthday surprise from his former teammates, signaling a seamless and celebrated reintegration into the Esteghlal family.