Title: Esteghlal FC Navigates Transfer Ban as Club Leadership Pursues Resolution
In a surprising turn of events, Esteghlal Football Club, one of Iran’s premier teams, has been handed a two-window transfer ban. The sanction comes at a time when the club’s recent strong performances and high-profile signings had significantly boosted fan morale.
The Source of the Challenge
The ban stems from a contractual complaint filed by former player Montazer Mohammad. In response, Esteghlal’s management, along with its legal and international departments, has mobilized its resources to resolve the matter. Club officials are actively gathering documentation to present to FIFA, football’s world governing body, and have engaged in direct negotiations with the player in hopes of finding an amicable solution.
Club Leadership Responds
Following a board meeting, Ali Nazari Juybari, a member of Esteghlal’s Board of Directors, addressed the media. “I have no new information regarding the status of the transfer window,” he stated. “If FIFA or the international court tells us and it is in our hands, we would say to open the window right now, but it is not in our hands! We are following up. We have taken the necessary legal steps and are waiting for a clear answer from them. For now, the club’s transfer window is closed!”
Nazari confirmed that all appropriate legal channels are being pursued, and the club, alongside its supporters, now awaits the final outcome of these efforts.
Looking Ahead
The “Blue” club remains hopeful that a resolution can be reached in time for the upcoming winter transfer window. A successful appeal would allow manager João Paulo Sá Pinto to make the strategic additions and adjustments he is reportedly seeking to further strengthen the squad for the remainder of the season.