Who are the most popular soccer players from Iran?
From the Iranian domestic leagues to the international stages, which athletes rise above the rest?
Explore the most popular soccer players from Iran and witness their impact on the beautiful game.
Also, check out this article for a broader look at the most popular athletes from Iran.
Most popular soccer players from Iran:
- Ali Daei
- Mehdi Mahdavikia
- Ali Karimi
- Andranik Teymourian
- Ashkan Dejagah
- Sardar Azmoun
- Khodadad Azizi
- Vahid Hashemian
- Karim Bagheri
- Masoud Shojaei
- Nasser Hejazi
Table of Contents
#1 Ali Daei
- 🎂 Born in: 1969
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: All-time leading goalscorer in international soccer
Ali Daei, a legendary Iranian striker, is the all-time leading goalscorer in international soccer, with an astounding 109 goals. His incredible scoring prowess and consistency have earned him immense respect and admiration both domestically and internationally.
His dedication and contributions to Iranian soccer have made him a role model for future generations of players.
#2 Mehdi Mahdavikia
- 🎂 Born in: 1977
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: 2-time Iranian Footballer of the Year
Mehdi Mahdavikia, known for his skill and speed as a right winger, had a successful career with both the Iranian national team and various clubs in Europe. His precise crosses and exceptional work ethic made him a key player for Team Melli during his career.
Mahdavikia’s achievements and character have established him as one of Iran’s all-time greats.
#3 Ali Karimi
- 🎂 Born in: 1978
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: 2004 Asian Footballer of the Year
Ali Karimi, nicknamed the “Asian Maradona,” was a skillful and creative attacking midfielder. With brilliant dribbling skills and a knack for scoring goals, Karimi impressed fans and opponents alike during his time with the Iranian national team and clubs in Europe and Asia.
His success and impact on the field have solidified his status as a fan favorite and one of Iran’s top players.
#4 Andranik Teymourian
- 🎂 Born in: 1983
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: First Christian Iran captain
Andranik Teymourian, a versatile midfielder known for his tenacity and combative spirit, made history as the first Christian to captain the Iranian national team. Throughout his career, Teymourian played for clubs in Iran, England, and various other countries, showcasing his talent and adaptability.
Teymourian’s leadership and commitment have earned him a special place in the hearts of Iranian soccer fans.
#5 Ashkan Dejagah
- 🎂 Born in: 1986
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: Iranian Footballer of the Year in 2012
Ashkan Dejagah, a powerful and skillful winger, has represented the Iranian national team with distinction since 2007. His time in the English Premier League and German Bundesliga has demonstrated his ability to compete with the world’s best players.
Dejagah’s impact and dedication to the sport have made him one of Iran’s most popular soccer players in recent times.
#6 Sardar Azmoun
- 🎂 Born in: 1995
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: Scoring in the 2018 FIFA World Cup
Sardar Azmoun, nicknamed the “Iranian Messi,” is a promising, young striker who has already made a name for himself both domestically and in European competitions. Azmoun’s combination of speed, strength, and scoring ability make him a constant threat to opposing defenses.
With many years ahead of him, experts believe that Azmoun has the potential to become one of Iran’s all-time greats.
#7 Khodadad Azizi
- 🎂 Born in: 1971
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: 1996 Asian Footballer of the Year
Khodadad Azizi, a prolific striker known for his nimble footwork and keen scoring instincts, was a key player for the Iranian national team throughout the 1990s. His famous last-minute goal against Australia in 1997 secured Iran’s qualification for the 1998 FIFA World Cup and is fondly remembered by Iranian soccer fans.
Azizi’s contributions and achievements have created a lasting legacy in Iranian soccer.
#8 Vahid Hashemian
- 🎂 Born in: 1976
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: Playing in the 2006 FIFA World Cup
Vahid Hashemian, affectionately known as the “Helicopter” for his incredible leaping ability, was a consistent and powerful forward. Over the course of his career, Hashemian played for clubs in Iran, Germany, and Greece while also representing the Iranian national team.
His performances on the pitch have earned him a special place in the history of Iranian soccer.
#9 Karim Bagheri
- 🎂 Born in: 1974
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: Record for most goals in a calendar year by an Asian player
Karim Bagheri, a versatile midfielder known for his strong defensive skills and goal-scoring ability, was a standout player for the Iranian national team during the late 1990s and early 2000s. Bagheri’s 28 goals in 1997 marked a record for the most goals by an Asian player in a single calendar year.
Bagheri’s exceptional skills and impressive record have secured his reputation as one of Iran’s top soccer players.
#10 Masoud Shojaei
- 🎂 Born in: 1984
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: Playing in three FIFA World Cup tournaments
Masoud Shojaei, an attacking midfielder known for his creativity and vision, has represented Iran in three FIFA World Cup tournaments. Over the course of his career, Shojaei has played for clubs in Iran, Spain, and Greece, showcasing his skill and adaptability.
His dedication and commitment to Iranian soccer have made him a popular and respected figure among fans.
#11 Nasser Hejazi
- 🎂 Born in: 1949
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: Two-time Iranian Goalkeeper of the Year
Nasser Hejazi, one of Iran’s most legendary goalkeepers, was known for his extraordinary reflexes and shot-stopping abilities. Hejazi’s performances for the Iranian national team and clubs, both domestically and abroad, earned him immense respect and admiration among soccer fans.
Hejazi’s legacy and impact on Iranian soccer continue to inspire goalkeepers and players in the country.
The influence of soccer reaches the shores of Greece; read about the most popular soccer players from Greece.
FAQ
Who is the greatest soccer player in Iran’s history?
Ali Daei is widely recognized as the greatest soccer player in Iran’s history.
Who is the most renowned female soccer player from Iran?
Katayoun Khosrowyar is the most famous female soccer player from Iran.
Which Iranian soccer player is most recognized internationally?
Ali Karimi, due to his time with Bayern Munich, is the most internationally recognized Iranian soccer player.
