Title: Alireza Nikbakht: Candid Reflections on a Storied Career in Iranian Football
In an exclusive and revealing interview, former Esteghlal and Persepolis star Alireza Nikbakht has shared a series of personal anecdotes and insights from his celebrated football career, offering a unique glimpse into the world of Iranian sports.
A Legacy in Blue and Red
Few players have left as indelible a mark on the hearts of fans from both of Iran’s premier football clubs, Esteghlal and Persepolis, as Alireza Nikbakht. The celebrated forward achieved the rare distinction of winning the Iranian Premier League title with both teams, securing his place in the nation’s football history.
The Story Behind the Celebration
Nikbakht revealed the origin of one of his most famous goal celebrations. The iconic “Stokely Celebration,” performed after scoring against Saudi Arabia’s Al-Ittihad in Jeddah in the autumn of 2001, was his own spontaneous idea. The celebration, which involved taking off his boot and using it like a telephone, became an unforgettable moment for fans.
Dedication and a Dose of Psychology
Highlighting his professional commitment, Nikbakht stated that he always pushed himself in training to ensure he remained a fixed part of the starting lineup. His dedication was matched by a humorous medical anecdote from his time with the national team. After an injury, he was convinced by a team doctor to take a “miracle injection from America” that would bring a dead man back to life. Following the injection, he provided three assists in a single match, only to later discover from another team doctor that it was merely a common Vitamin B complex shot.
Praise for a Legend and Club Management
The former star reserved high praise for legendary goalkeeper Ahmadreza Abedzadeh, noting his unparalleled mental strength that made the goal seem to shrink for opposing strikers. Reflecting on club governance, Nikbakht observed that the managerial landscape had evolved to a point where a director’s business acumen was as crucial as their football knowledge for a club’s success. He also fondly recalled the efforts of former Esteghlal official Ali Fathollahzadeh, who he said went to great lengths, even selling his own house and car, to resolve the club’s financial difficulties.
A Painful Transfer and Unfulfilled Promises
One of the most poignant parts of the interview addressed his controversial transfer from Esteghlal to rivals Persepolis. Nikbakht described the move as a direct result of what he termed an “unfair” and “ungentlemanly” effort by individuals within Esteghlal to undermine his position, leaving him with little choice but to depart. He expressed profound sadness over the subsequent backlash from fans, stating that the verbal abuse directed at him and his family was deeply hurtful. He also clarified the original intention behind the Hajjazi Camp project, revealing it was initially planned as a land grant for Esteghlal players to build homes, a plan that was later changed.
An Anecdote from Abroad
Nikbakht concluded with a lighter story involving national team icon Ali Daei. During a return trip from the UAE, a comment from a local police officer, once translated, prompted Daei to confront the officer by grabbing his collar. Fortunately, Nikbakht added, the situation was resolved peacefully.
