Title: Final Word on Aref Aghasi: Speculation Over Player’s Future at Esteghlal Ends
Tehran – Following a period of intense speculation, the future of footballer Aref Aghasi with Tehran-based club Esteghlal appears to be firmly back on track, with the player actively reintegrating into the team’s core training sessions.
A Period of Intense Scrutiny
The rumors of a potential split began after Esteghlal’s run of disappointing results in domestic and Asian competitions over the past month. The situation escalated following the team’s heavy defeat to Al Wasl. In the aftermath, Aghasi was explicitly and strongly criticized by the team’s Portuguese assistant coach in two consecutive post-match press conferences.
This public critique, which named Aghasi directly, fueled widespread media reports that the player’s collaboration with the iconic Iranian club was nearing an end. Aghasi, who had been a key figure in Tractor’s championship-winning campaign the previous season, found himself at the center of a growing narrative about his exit.
Return to the Fold Puts Rumors to Rest
However, recent developments within the club have decisively countered this narrative. After being absent from the lineup for subsequent matches, Aghasi has now returned to training with a visibly active presence.
In a clear signal of his reinstatement, the club’s official media channel recently published images of Aghasi participating fully in team exercises alongside his Esteghlal teammates. This official visual confirmation has effectively put an end to the circulating rumors, demonstrating that the player remains a committed part of the squad and is a strong candidate for a return to the starting lineup.
Aghasi’s last appearance for Esteghlal was 23 days prior, in a match where he was substituted in the 50th minute. His renewed involvement in training indicates a resolution to the earlier tensions and a focus on strengthening the team’s performance for upcoming challenges.