Title: Contract Dispute Emerges Between Persepolis FC and Former Manager Hashemian
A contractual disagreement has come to light between Iranian football club Persepolis and its former manager, Vahid Hashemian, following the conclusion of their professional relationship. The situation underscores the complex financial regulations within the Iranian Professional League.
Navigating League Financial Regulations
Clubs operating within Iran’s top football division are subject to specific financial controls, including an annual spending cap for player transfers. To remain competitive, particularly with rival clubs like Sepahan and Esteghlal actively engaging in the transfer market, Persepolis, like other teams, structured contracts to operate within this regulatory framework. This often involves a formal contract registered with the league organization and a separate, supplementary agreement.
The Core of the Disagreement
According to reports, the total value of Hashemian’s agreement with Persepolis was approximately 500,000 US dollars. The officially registered contract with the league was for 15 billion tomans, with the remaining 35 billion tomans to be paid via post-dated checks, contingent on the manager meeting certain performance clauses.
With the club’s decision to part ways with Hashemian, Persepolis management has reportedly requested the return of these checks to facilitate a new mutual termination agreement. The club’s expectation is for a negotiated settlement where both parties compromise.
A Potential Legal Pathway
Hashemian, however, is stated to be unwilling to return the checks and is seeking the full payment as per his understanding of the agreement. This firm stance increases the likelihood of a formal legal complaint being filed by the former manager, which would bring the matter before the Football Federation’s Disciplinary Committee. One Persepolis board member was quoted as affirming the club’s position, stating they have a single contract valued at 50 billion tomans, with payment dependent on the fulfillment of commitments.
Seeking an Amicable Resolution
The club remains open to reaching a friendly agreement to avoid a protracted legal dispute. The resolution hinges on whether both sides can find common ground, as the documents signed by both parties will ultimately determine the factual obligations of each.