Ali Karimi , the current Tractorsazi player expressed his desire to assist Team Melli and play in the World Cup once again. Perhaps it was a hint aimed at Queiroz, one that the Portuguese head coach of Team Melli did not take seriously. After the announcement of the 30 players list for the World Cup. Queiroz was asked about the exclusion of Karimi , amongst others, a player that many consider as one of most skilful in Iran’s football history, if not the most decorated. Carlos Queiroz described Karimi as a unique talented player. He admitted that he likes Karimi’s style and has a special place in his heart for the players, but Karimi himself resigned from Team Melli.

Queiroz response to the question fell quite short of giving a straight answer. Is it the form and standard of Ali Karimi that was the cause of his omission, or is it his demeanor and attitude that gave Queiroz a fright, especially since Karimi has a track record of being divisive in camps and as an outspoken person , has tendencies to create problems for the team bosses.

Rumors of Karimi’s imminent selection for Team Melli were quite strong in Tehran. Exchanges of congratulation spread amongst his supports on SMS, a day before the list was out! Someone within was confident that Ali Karimi will be on the list and spread that news. The end result was quite disappointing for those who wished to see the wizard of Tehran once again and perhaps for the last time, at the grandest theater of football.

The reaction of Karimi supports was quite novel in Iran. A group of them carried a large banner during Team Melli training sessions begging Queiroz to pick Karimi for the World Cup. The protest and the banner got a fair bit of exposure in the press but all to no avail. Mohammad Ali Karimi Pashaki , a player who has undoubtedly entertained the crowds with his wizardry , dribbling skills, a player whose vision in the game is exemplary , his assists a class on its own, will not be in Brazil with Team Melli as a player.

Fars News Agency interviewed Ali Karimi seeking his feeling on the subject matter.

Q: Mr. Karimi , we have not heard from you for some time.

A: I am carrying out some light personal training at the moment. The league is off and I like to regain my form hence I am focused on exercising to be in shape.

Q: We heard you have several offers from clubs on the table.

A: That is not the case. I thank all those who have shown interest in my services, but honestly speaking, I have not thought much about any offers at this stage. I like to take some time off to think and relax before making a decision.

Q: It seems that your supporters are still campaigning to include you in Team Melli for the World Cup.

A: I don’t know what are you insinuating, but this is not the right time to speak about the issue. At this stage we all need to fully support our Team Melli and this is not the time to discuss why this player was invited and why that player was not.

Q: I am referring to all those fans of yours who carried a large banner outside Team Melli training ground, urging Queiroz to include you in the squad.

A: I appreciate the fans sentiments but at the end of the day , it is the coach’s decision and we need to respect that, I wish Team Melli all the success.

Q: Queiroz referred to you as one of the best Iranian players and you, Karimi, have a special place in his heart!

A: I also want to thank Queiroz for his feelings and wish him success in his difficult task. As I said, this is not the time to indulge in such matters. Team Melli needs calm and our backing.

Q: What is your expectation of our team in the World Cup?

A: I have previously mentioned that playing in the World Cup is a very difficult task especially against top class teams. However, these players have not descended from space. It is true that Messi is the best player in the world and Argentine have many players in his class, but Messi has two feet, two hands and one head to do the thinking. We should not scare our players to such an extent. Nobody denies that marking Messi is not a simple task, however a defender who is playing in the World Cup must be well-prepared , ready and have the ability to carry out the task of marking him.

I believe all the three teams are strong in our group.

Q: You are right , but with such poor preparations and programming failures, that might not be a straight forward task.

A: I have no comment on this issue. I hope Team Melli plays some serious practice matches before the World Cup, so that at least the players rid themselves of their anxiety and do not feel overwhelmed when they meet the big boys. The World Cup is a difficult place to be , the players need self-confidence, support and assurance.

Q: Are you hopeful of Team Melli qualifying for the next round.

A: I don’t really know. We simply have to do our best. I wish them all the best. I hope that with a good ground work and preparation, they would make us all proud. For the sake of the fans, we all have to work hard and do our best each in his own capacity. Of course, it is easier said than done.

Q: With statements such as you have given here, no wonder that many fans think you should be there with the team.

A: I thank you for your kind sentiment, but it is the coach who decides that. I said my bit and he did his bit. Despite all the praises, admiration and respectful words that were uttered about me, the end result is clear for everyone to see. I can’t complain.

Share this: Share

Twitter

Facebook



LinkedIn



Like this: Like Loading...