Title: Strategic Shift: Esteghlal’s High-Profile Signing Marks New Chapter
Tehran – In a significant move during the twenty-fifth league transfer season, Esteghlal Football Club finalized a domestic contract with player Isa Al-Kathir on the final day of Tir this year. The announcement, made via the club’s official channels, immediately sparked intense reactions from the team’s veterans and dedicated fanbase.
Criticism was directed at the club’s management following the circulation of past footage showing Al-Kathir, a former player of rival team Persepolis, scoring against Esteghlal. Additional interviews expressing his admiration for Persepolis further fueled the controversy, leading to internal deliberations within Esteghlal’s board. Ultimately, the club and player mutually agreed to forgo the collaboration.
The widespread reaction from fans and club legends, including Amir Hossein Sadeqi, overshadowed what had been a relatively successful transfer period for the management. In response, the club’s leadership decided to pivot its strategy, shifting focus towards acquiring renowned international figures with recent experience in European leagues to address fan concerns and bolster the team’s prospects.
Esteghlal’s management successfully altered the narrative by signing high-caliber players such as Yaser Asani, Saeed Saharkhizan, Moussa Gnepo, and Dacennes Nazon. However, sources close to the club’s management reveal that the acquisition of Munir El Haddadi, conducted in consultation with the club’s management advisor and with the approval of Head Coach Ricardo Sá Pinto, was strategically aimed at moving past the earlier controversy. This high-profile signing is seen as a direct effort to heal the disappointment felt by the Blue fans and to demonstrate a renewed commitment to strengthening the squad with top-tier talent.
Munir El Haddadi arrived in Tehran on Wednesday, 19 Shahrivar, and has since joined the team’s travel squad to Ahvaz, where he is available for selection in the upcoming match against Esteghlal Khuzestan.