Title: Shams Azar FC’s Coach Speaks: Financial Realities, Youth Focus, and the True Value of Football Stars
Shams Azar FC Prepares for New Season with Strategic Approach
Shams Azar FC has begun its preparations for the new Persian Gulf Pro League season under the guidance of head coach Vahid Rezaei. Speaking to ISNA, Rezaei outlined the team’s challenges and ambitions, emphasizing financial constraints, youth development, and the need for fan support.
Rebuilding the Squad
Rezaei revealed that the team lost nearly 17 players in the off-season, limiting their recruitment to just seven top-tier signings. “We focused on securing high-quality Pro League players and versatile talents from lower divisions,” he said. Despite financial hurdles, the club has prioritized smart recruitment, blending experience with promising young players.
Training and Facilities
The team has been training intensively in Qazvin, utilizing strong facilities, including a swimming pool and weight room. Rezaei highlighted the benefits of their pre-season friendlies, including a tough match against Aluminium Arak, which helped sharpen their form.
A New Playing Style
“We aim to change our style of play this season,” Rezaei stated. “Our primary goal is to entertain fans with good football while achieving solid results.” He stressed the importance of home support, urging fans to fill stadiums and boost morale.
Financial Realities in Iranian Football
Fair Pay for Players
Rezaei addressed the controversial topic of player salaries, arguing that even Iran’s best footballers should not earn more than 30 to 40 billion rials (approx. $60,000–$80,000). “Some agents inflate prices for their own gain,” he said, dismissing exorbitant transfer fees as “market bubbles.”
Shams Azar, a privately owned club, operates on a modest budget—far below wealthier Pro League teams. “Our entire budget equals the salary of just two players from top clubs,” Rezaei noted. “We can’t compete for million-dollar signings.”
Focus on Youth Development
With limited funds for foreign players, Shams Azar is investing in domestic youth talent. “We’ve signed promising players aged 17–21,” Rezaei said, expressing confidence in their potential. The club has also settled 97% of last season’s player contracts—a rare achievement in Iranian football.
Rezaei’s Coaching Journey
Having worked his way up from Iran’s lower leagues over 15 years, Rezaei dismissed shortcuts to success. “Top foreign coaches like Guardiola and Klopp started small—so did I,” he said. His experience includes a brief stint leading Nassaji Mazandaran in the AFC Champions League, earning praise despite tough results.
No Easy Games in Iran’s League
Rezaei downplayed the significance of the league draw, stating, “Every match is tough.” Shams Azar opens against Esteghlal Khuzestan, a seasoned Pro League side, but Rezaei remains unfazed: “We’ll fight hard, regardless of opponents.”
Final Thoughts
Shams Azar’s strategy reflects broader challenges in Iranian football—balancing financial limitations with sporting ambition. As Rezaei put it: “Success isn’t bought overnight; it’s built through hard work and smart planning.”
Note: All financial figures are in Iranian rials. Conversion rates may vary.
