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Iran excludes Sardar Azmoun from World Cup squad ahead of 2026 tournament

2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 1, 2026, 3:25 PM

Last updated Jun 1, 2026

Iran excludes Sardar Azmoun from World Cup squad ahead of 2026 tournament
Summary

Sardar Azmoun has been omitted from Iran's squad for the upcoming 2026 World Cup, which begins on June 11. Reports suggest his exclusion follows perceptions of disloyalty to the Iranian government, stemming from a photo with UAE leader Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum posted in March. Iran is relocating its World Cup base to Mexico after the US declined to host them. The squad includes notable players like Mehdi Taremi and Alireza Jahanbakhsh. Iran will face New Zealand on June 15, Belgium on June 21, and Egypt on June 26 in the tournament.

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By the Numbers
  • •Azmoun is Iran's third-highest goalscorer with 57 goals.
  • •Iran is set to play in Los Angeles and Seattle during the tournament.
  • •The 2026 World Cup is co-hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico.
  • •Coach Amir Ghalenoei did not include Azmoun in the preliminary or final squad.
  • •Iran's squad features players from various leagues, primarily from the UAE.
Latest Updates
  • 3:25 PMYahoo Sports — Iran omit Azmoun from World Cup squad
  • 3:21 PMBBC Football — Iran omit Azmoun from World Cup squad
What they're saying
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Sardar Azmoun has been left out of Iran's World Cup squad, amid reports of a perceived act of disloyalty to the country's government.

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Sardar Azmoun has been left out of Iran's World Cup squad, amid reports of a perceived act of disloyalty to the country's government.

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