“I am fully content to return to the national team. I will serve as a soldier if Mr. Daei (coach) summons me for the Saudi Arabia match,” were the words chosen by Ali Karimi.
Ali Karimi, the Tehran Magician, one of the most creative and gifted midfielders of Asia has returned to the Iranian National team after (miserably long story short) essentially retiring over a feud with the Iranian Federation. The former Bayern Munich playmaker had not played in Team Melli since May 2008.
“Hopefully, we will qualify for the World Cup for the fourth time. I believe Iran has many good players at the moment. We will be there (World Cup competition) through a logical program.”
Karimi's return could show that despite a corrupt and weak Football Federation, Iran's talent and potential in football can surmount organizational and political obstacles. It will be a victory for the Iranian people... that being said, Karimi must earn his spot in the starting eleven.
If Karimi returns, Iran will greatly benefit in their run for the 2010 World Cup. A midfield employing the creative services of Masoud Shojaei and Ali Karimi and the might and protection provided by Javad Nekounam will be one of the strongest midfields Iran has had in years.
