Title: Persepolis Under Pressure: Former Star Calls for Urgent Turnaround and Professionalism
Introduction: A Critical Juncture for a Football Giant
Persepolis FC, one of Iran’s most storied and popular football clubs, finds itself at a critical point in the season. Following a series of disappointing draws in Tehran, expectations are mounting for the team to secure decisive victories. In a detailed interview, former Persepolis player Mohammad Borzgar voiced strong support for head coach Vahid Hashemian while issuing a clarion call for immediate improvement, tactical shifts, and greater professionalism from the players.
Time for Results: Patience Wearing Thin
Borzgar, who has consistently backed Hashemian, emphasized that the time for excuses is over. “Everyone expects wins from Hashemian’s team,” he stated. “After several draws in Tehran, it is no longer logical for Persepolis not to get results at home.” He stressed that the club, with its high-quality signings and dedicated fanbase of millions, is not an ordinary team and must start delivering performances worthy of its stature. “The fans’ expectation for a win is their rightful demand,” Borzgar added, highlighting the deep emotional and financial investment of the supporters.
A Crucial Fixture and Tactical Revisions
All eyes are on Persepolis’s upcoming match against Kheybar Khorramabad. Borzgar labeled the game as “vital” for Hashemian, suggesting a victory could mend the relationship with the fans. He also offered tactical advice, urging the coach to move away from a defensive 4-2-3-1 formation. “With the quality of players Persepolis has, the expectation is to play with three attackers,” Borzgar commented. He specifically recommended reviving Milad Mohammadi in his natural left-back position, noting the international player’s experience makes him a valuable asset in his specialized role.
A Call for Professionalism and Discipline
In his most pointed comments, Borzgar addressed issues of player discipline off the pitch. He expressed dismay at reports of professional players, some with multi-billion Toman contracts, being out at parties and gas stations until the early hours of the morning. “A professional player should be asleep by 10 PM, not at a party at 4 AM,” he asserted. Borzgar called on club security officials to seriously monitor and deal with players who violate professional conduct codes, reminding them of their responsibility to the hard-working fans who spend their money to support the team.
Managerial and Administrative Pressures
The former star also weighed in on the situation of club manager Reza Darvish, whose position has become a point of contention among fans. While acknowledging Darvish’s efforts in player recruitment, Borzgar suggested that a shock resignation might ultimately be beneficial for both Darvish and the team, potentially opening a new path forward for the club.
Conclusion: A Unified Front for Success
Borzgar concluded by reiterating his support for Coach Hashemian, acknowledging the immense pressure he is under. He expressed hope that the team would rally, starting with the crucial match against Kheybar Khorramabad, which could be a defining moment for the rest of the season. “As long as Hashemian is the head coach, we must support him,” Borzgar said, while also emphasizing that the interests of the people and the club’s vast fanbase must be considered, as Persepolis represents a shared national passion.