Title: The Maniei Perspective: Analyzing Esteghlal’s Resurgence and Ramin Rezaeian’s Role
A Promising Trajectory for Esteghlal
In a recent analysis of Esteghlal FC’s performance, former player and pundit Meisam Maniei highlighted the team’s positive momentum following their 3-0 victory over Fajr Sepasi. Maniei noted that while the team has not yet reached its peak, it is on a promising upward trajectory, securing its third consecutive win. He credited the team’s improved conditions for this consistent run of form.
Tactical Refinement and Asian Ambitions
Maniei acknowledged that under coach Ricardo Sá Pinto, the team occasionally experiences fluctuations during matches and has not yet fully embodied the coach’s complete tactical vision. However, he expressed strong confidence in the team’s potential for growth, especially in the AFC Champions League. “The situation in Asia is not bad at all,” Maniei stated, pointing to a crucial win against Al Wahda. He believes that with the integration of experienced foreign players, Esteghlal is well-positioned to advance from its group, despite the challenging matches ahead.
A Balanced Squad, Not Just Foreign Reliance
Addressing the notion that Esteghlal is overly dependent on its foreign signings, Maniei offered a nuanced view. He affirmed the quality of players like Assadi and Munir, who were recruited to strengthen the squad, but was quick to praise the significant contributions of the team’s younger domestic talents. He emphasized that it is too early in the Iranian league season to definitively label the team as reliant on its foreign contingent, highlighting the balanced roles within Sá Pinto’s system.
The Rezaeian Conundrum: A Tactical Decision
A significant portion of the discussion focused on the recent benching of national team defender Ramin Rezaeian. Maniei, drawing on his understanding of Sá Pinto’s philosophy, explained that disciplined defending is paramount to the Portuguese coach. He suggested that within Sá Pinto’s tactical framework, only a select few players—likely the key attackers—are afforded limited defensive duties. Maniei pointed out that Haredani currently offers more in defensive contributions, which aligns better with the coach’s requirements.
“Perhaps Ramin grew larger than expected at Esteghlal,” Maniei commented, referencing the captain’s armband he inherited. He firmly stated that in a club of Esteghlal’s stature, players with greater seniority have been benched before, and that selection is purely performance-based. “If Ramin provides what Sá Pinto is looking for, he will undoubtedly be a fixed starter. Football is like that; when you perform well, you play, and vice versa.”
Strengthening the Backroom
Looking to the future, Maniei welcomed the addition of Voria Ghafouri to the technical staff, describing the former club star as a “heavyweight” for Esteghlal. He believes Ghafouri’s passion for the club and experience, alongside Khosro Heidari, will be invaluable, particularly in mentoring the team’s many young players and helping to maintain consistent performance levels throughout the season.