Title: Esteghlal’s Key Player Nears Pivotal Return for Crucial Al-Wasl Match
Tehran – In a significant boost to their campaign, Esteghlal Football Club’s final training session before their crucial match against Al-Wasl saw the energetic return of midfielder Jalaleddin Masharipov to group exercises.
A Determined Recovery
Masharipov, who suffered a serious anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury in the pre-season, made the strategic decision to forgo surgical intervention to expedite his return to the pitch. Having successfully completed his rehabilitation, the player has now rejoined full team training and is reported to be in strong technical and physical condition.
Contract and Registration Status Clarified
Addressing the player’s official status, Farhad Taheri, the head of transfer affairs for the League Organization, provided clarity. “Masharipov’s previous contract had concluded, but Esteghlal proceeded with its renewal,” Taheri stated. He further explained that while the player’s documents were not submitted for registration immediately following his injury, his contract remains fully valid.
Crucially, Taheri confirmed that since Masharipov was not on the initial season list, his current registration does not involve a formal removal process. “According to the regulations, the club can register him at any time to fill an existing vacancy on their list, once he receives medical clearance,” he added.
The Final Hurdle: Medical Clearance
With one vacant slot remaining on their roster, and with Masharipov considered a continuing player rather than a new signing, Esteghlal’s management has the flexibility to register him either under the FIFA quota or during the mid-season registration window. The final step for the player’s highly anticipated comeback now rests solely on the official approval from Esteghlal’s own medical team.


