Title: Khuzestan Derby Fallout: Esteghlal Khuzestan Resolves Player Dispute Ahead of Crucial Persepolis Clash
A Squad in Protest
Following the Khuzestan derby in the ninth week of the Persian Gulf Pro League, players of Esteghlal Khuzestan took the unprecedented step of going on strike. The protest, triggered by unpaid wages, brought the team’s training sessions to a complete halt. This situation left the squad without proper preparation for several weeks as they faced a series of critical upcoming matches.
A Crisis Meeting Before a Major Match
With a high-stakes match against the Tehran-based Persepolis team looming, the situation demanded immediate resolution. In a decisive move, the company’s manager visited the team’s accommodation on Wednesday for a face-to-face meeting with the players. The direct intervention proved successful, with firm assurances given that all outstanding player financial demands would be settled this week. This agreement is expected to restore the squad’s psychological composure and allow them to focus on the game.
A Race Against Time
Despite the resolution, the team faces a significant logistical challenge. According to the announced schedule, the players will travel to Tehran without having held a single training session. This lack of on-field preparation and team coordination presents a unique hurdle for Esteghlal Khuzestan, making their Friday encounter with Persepolis a true test of resilience and individual skill under extraordinary circumstances. The event marks a rare occurrence in the history of the league, highlighting the intense pressure and high drama of the competition.