Sardar Azmoun

Sardar Azmoun is a prominent Iranian footballer who previously played for Bayer Leverkusen. He is currently in the news due to reports of his expulsion from the Iranian national team. This action reportedly stems from a perceived act of disloyalty to the Iranian government, triggered by an Instagram post featuring a photo of him with the emir of Dubai, Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, whom Azmoun praised. Some reports label this action as "treason against the fatherland." This expulsion casts doubt on his participation in future international competitions, including the upcoming FIFA World Cup. The Iranian national team recently played a match against Nigeria, losing 1-2, where players protested with school backpacks, seemingly referencing the ongoing conflict. Azmoun was not part of the squad for that match.