Iran duo vow to represent all Iranians as World Cup campaign begins amid political tensions

• Amir Ghalenoei and Mehdi Taremi said Iran’s squad will represent all Iranians during the World Cup regardless of political views
• Team Melli begin their tournament against New Zealand in Los Angeles amid reports of planned protests outside the stadium
• Taremi urged focus on football and praised New Zealand ahead of Iran’s opening Group G fixture

Iran coach Amir Ghalenoei and striker Mehdi Taremi have insisted the national team will represent all Iranians at the World Cup as preparations continue for Monday’s opening Group G clash against New Zealand in Los Angeles.

Team Melli arrived in California on Sunday ahead of a tournament overshadowed by political tensions and logistical challenges. Iran’s preparations were disrupted after visa complications forced the team to relocate its training base from Arizona to Mexico, while several staff members were unable to enter the United States.

Reports have also suggested that large-scale protests could take place outside SoFi Stadium before Iran’s opening match, with Los Angeles home to the largest Iranian community in the United States.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Ghalenoei stressed that the squad’s focus remains solely on football.

“I would like to let you know that we are here to play football and we are here to represent the respectful people of Iran, be it the Iranians inside Iran or the Iranian diaspora,” he said.

“We only think about our country. We are not political people.

“The Iranian nation, we respect each and every one of the Iranians.”

Taremi echoed his manager’s message, repeatedly emphasising unity and the team’s desire to bring joy to supporters both inside and outside the country.

“We respect all Iranians, be it the Iranians who are inside the country or Iranians who are outside the country,” Taremi said.

“We are here to play football, and football can always unite all factions. Our people, we love them inside or outside Iran.

“For many years, the civilized country of Iran has been a united nation. We want to showcase that unity. We are here at the World Cup to bring joy to Iranians wherever they are.”

The Olympiacos forward also addressed questions surrounding potential demonstrations and political symbolism connected to the tournament.

“We, the players of the national team, we play for every Iranian, be it the Iranian diaspora or be it Iranians in the country,” he said.

“In every country, people have different opinions, but we are here as footballers to unite people, and we will try to bring joy to all Iranians, irrespective of where they live.

“Everyone is entitled to their own opinion, and we respect them, but we are here to bring joy to the Iranian people. We do not get involved in politics. We are here to play football.”

Taremi later expressed frustration that much of the discussion centred on political issues rather than football, reminding reporters that Iran face a challenging opening fixture against New Zealand.

“Nobody asked any football-related questions,” he said.

“We are playing the excellent New Zealand team tomorrow, and I very much hope it’s going to be a good game.

“For the political, you have to go to other cities for this political press conference. We have high respect for New Zealand, and we want it to be a good game.

“We will make sure that we play a beautiful game for all the spectators, and I hope New Zealand will have the same attitude. I look forward to tomorrow.”