Title: The Benefactor Behind Persepolis: A Discussion on Football Club Support
Introduction: The Talk of the Town
The role of devoted supporters in the world of football is once again a topic of conversation, this time surrounding Iran’s renowned club, Persepolis. Club officials and players have been openly discussing the significant contributions of a long-time, affluent fan, highlighting his support for both the club’s infrastructure and its players, and sparking a wider dialogue on the nature of such backing within the sport’s ecosystem.
Club Official Addresses Regulations and Support
Hossein Khabiri, a member of Persepolis’s board of directors, recently addressed several issues. While clarifying the club’s stance on league complaints and financial regulations, he emphasized that Persepolis has not exceeded its budget ceiling. The conversation then turned to the club’s wealthy patron. Khabiri posed a rhetorical question, asking what is wrong with a small percentage of a club’s vast fanbase—which he estimates at 20-30 million—choosing to offer financial support if they are able. He pointed to similar instances of support received by the Football Federation and other clubs, advocating for a consistent and transparent approach across the board.
Khabiri confirmed that the benefactor’s help has been directed towards infrastructure projects, such as the construction of a second training ground. He defended the individual’s right to support players personally, separating such actions from the club’s official financial dealings. His central argument was a call for equitable application of league regulations for all clubs.
Profile of a Patron
The supporter at the center of this discussion is Mohammad Yusefi, a 64-year-old businessman originally from Bandar Lengeh, who now resides in Dubai. For decades, Yusefi has been a steadfast financial backer of Persepolis, with reports indicating annual support ranging in the tens of billions of tomans. His assistance has also extended to facilitating the club’s international financial transactions through his exchange office.
A Player’s Perspective: Invaluable Backing
Iranian national team and Persepolis goalkeeper, Alireza Beiranvand, offered a player’s insight into the patron’s impact. He described Yusefi as an “enthusiast” whose dedication is a key attraction for anyone taking a leadership role at the club. Beiranvand detailed the tangible benefits, noting that Yusefi has purchased essential equipment like physiotherapy and massage devices for the club, funded team meals during financially tight periods for up to nine months, and fully equipped the club’s academy.
The goalkeeper also touched upon the delicate subject of player payments, suggesting that Yusefi has occasionally bridged financial gaps when the club’s official budget could not cover certain amounts for players. Beiranvand expressed profound gratitude, stating that the players hold the patron in high esteem for his heartfelt contributions that supplement the club’s official capabilities, concluding with a hope for his continued support for years to come.
Conclusion: A Broader Dialogue on Football Finance
The situation with Persepolis and its prominent benefactor has opened a constructive conversation about the mechanisms of support for football clubs, the boundaries of fan involvement, and the consistent application of financial regulations to ensure fair competition within Iran’s professional sports leagues.