Talent with a big heart

Mehdi Madavikia carried by the players of Hamburg off the pitch

Bundesliga - When the final whistle went after the game against Alemannia Aachen, Mehdi Mahdavikia stayed on the pitch of the AOL-Arena.

Who knows what was going on in his head during the moment he ended his 8 year stay ay HSV. It was clear to see where his heart was as a couple of minutes later he fell into the arms of the mascot and started to cry his heart out.

Honest enjoyment

That scene showed the character of Mehdi Mahdavikia. He always gives his all and was able to identify himself with the fans. When he does something, he does it properly. A gentleman amongst the ruthless world of football.

The tears will take a while to dry for the former HSV favourite. However, Mahdavikia has decided to play for Frankfurt next season. He is looking forward to Frankfurt, the new stadium and the fans.

Family more important than Money

The decision of the team from Frankfurt was one made with the heart and not the head. Because his family enjoy life in Germany, the captain of the Iranian national side turned down more lucrative offers in Russia, the UAE and from Spain.

"I could have earned more money playing abroad. But I wanted to stay in Germany so that my daughter can continue her schooling. Frankfurt was for me the only alternative." Explained Mehdi Mahdavikia, who has played 223 Bundesliga games and scored 29 goals for VFL Bochum and HSV.

Funkel is delighted

He began his career as a striker with Bochum during the 1998/1999 season. A year later when Bochum were relegated he transferred to Hamburg. He moved into the midfield but was still encouraged to get forward and help the attack.

"Mehdi can play anywhere down the right", believes his new trainer Friedhelm Funkel and he goes on to add: "Mehdi was the player I was after. He will bring a lot of experience and will
help us out."

Heribert Bruchhagen the chairman was also delighted with the capture, "he is the all-rounder which we were looking for."

Mayor of the town in Teheran

Mahdavikia has adaptability, experience and pace. As a youngster he won the 100, 400 and 5,000M races in his home town of Teheran.

The 29 year old us still a flying machine who wins many a duel with his blistering pace. And on top of that are his technical skills.

To operate in midfield

It is no surprise to think that Mahdavikia will be charged with supplying the goals. In the Bundesliga he has already created 45 goals.

It is believed that the Asian footballer of the year in 2003 will be playing on the right of midfield. He could also take over from Patrick Ochs at right back. Mahdavikia has signed a three year deal which is only applicable for the Bundesliga.

Two hearts in his chest

Because of his personality and the way he is, it will not take Mehdi Mahdavikia long to feel at home in Frankfurt.

Perhaps he will fall in love with Frankfurt like he did with Hamburg. Just ask both his wives if he can fall in love again.