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Updated 2026-03-20 08:04 UTC
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Iran striker Sardar Azmoun kicked off national soccer team for disloyalty, say reports - Reuters

What happened

Iranian striker Sardar Azmoun has reportedly been kicked off the national soccer team for disloyalty. The decision follows an Instagram post featuring Dubai's ruler, according to multiple reports. Azmoun currently plays for UAE club Shabab Al-Ahli.

Why people care
The incident highlights the political tensions surrounding Already On the Water, Bessent Says">Iranian athletes and their social media presence during a period of regional conflict. For Iranian football fans, losing a key striker from the national team represents both a sporting loss and a reflection of broader political pressures affecting the sport.
The takes
Iranian authorities say

Azmoun's Instagram post demonstrated disloyalty to the national team and country. Players representing Iran must maintain appropriate conduct and avoid actions that could be seen as supporting rival nations or their leadership.

Supporters say

The expulsion represents an overreach that punishes an athlete for a social media post. Azmoun plays professionally in the UAE and the Instagram post may have been related to his club career rather than any political statement.

Sources
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