GOAL - Iranian legend Ali Daei has denied
reports that he could be next in line to take over Iranian Pro League giants
Persepolis.
The seven-time champions haven’t lifted the
title since 2001 and are looking for a new pair of hands at the helm.
Recently, South Korean assistant coach Afshin Ghotbi, who was born in Iran,
was linked with the vacancy.
Daei became the player-coach role of Iranian club Saipa last year and
proceeded to lead the unfashionable outfit to the league title in May.
"I didn’t speak to anybody and I don’t think about Persepolis,” Daei told
reporters in Hong Kong.
“I have a contract with Saipa and I would like to stay with Saipa.”
There have even been rumours connecting the world’s international record
goalscorer to the national team.
“As for the national team, I can’t say now but in the future anything can
happen. I’ve learned so many things that have helped me as a coach and I can
use my experience and do a lot to improve Iranian football.”
Daei retired from the national team after the 2006 World Cup and his
subsequent domestic success was a real bonus for the former Asian Player of
the Year.
“It was great for me, in my first season as a coach to become a champion,”
he said.
“It’s great for me but it’s just the start of my work. I have big ideas and
plans for the team and I want to put those into action.”
The ex-Bayern Munich and Hertha Bertha striker is looking to continental
success next season.
“We want to play well in the Asian Champions League,” said Daei.
“There’s still a big gap between Asian and European club football but it is
closing and I think it’s better this year than it was last year and I hope
that will continue in Asia.”
