Sardar Azmoun’s World Cup absence for political reasons divides opinion in Iran

Few would believe the forward’s omission is unconnected to his actions protesting against the regime on social media

Many travellers to the US have been alarmed by proposals that could require them to submit their social media history to officials. For Sardar Azmoun, it appears online activity will prevent him even from making it to the country for the World Cup. If Iran end up going, their 31-year-old striker will seemingly not join them after being left out of the preliminary squad.

This is despite 57 goals in 91 appearances for his country and a CV that few in Asia can match, featuring spells with Bayer Leverkusen, Roma and Zenit St Petersburg. Few would argue that Iran’s coach, Amir Ghalenoei, is so blessed with attacking resources that he should leave one of the continent’s biggest stars behind and fewer would believe Azmoun’s actions on social media are unconnected.