Clearly, Ghotbi’s honeymoon with the Iranian media has come to an end. Iran’s football media is among the most vociferous in Asia and the national coach, whoever it may be, is fair game.
This is especially the case when Team Melli lose. And the defeat to Jordan was particularly bitter because the media felt Ghotbi’s defensive approach cost them the match.
Not all news outlets turned against him after the Jordan defeat but Ghotbi, who lived outside Iran for more than 20 years, is beginning to feel the heat.
“I have heard a lot of criticism lately,” Ghotbi told the media. “Sometimes this can be positive but in some cases, it seems to be personal attacks or politically motivated.
“Some people are praying for Team Melli to lose. I have no problem saying that. But national pride must be the priority for all of us.”
Saviour
The 45-year-old Ghotbi was hailed as the saviour for Iran after taking charge of the side with three games of FIFA World Cup qualifying remaining.
He was not blamed for their eventual failure, having taken over what many considered a lost cause from the reign of Ali Daei.
But the loss to Jordan stung many in the Iran media, even though Team Melli still lead Group E and are in a strong position to qualify for the 2011 finals in Qatar.
Ghotbi was appointed to the number one sporting job in Iran on April 22. In his past four matches, he has lost once. The Iran Football Federation continue to back him.
But the coach, who was in the Korea Republic national team set-up when they reached the 2002 FIFA World Cup semi-finals, knows he must tread carefully.
Wider problem
Still, he defended his record saying performances by the national team merely reflected the state of Iran football on a wider scale.
“In Iranian football, you never know what will happen,” he said. “In the 12 days we had four matches and lost only once. I don’t believe it is such a terrible record.
“We cannot resolve our football problems with only one good result. If we really think that defeating Jordan could change our football situation then this is our big mistake.
“Defeat to Jordan was bitter for me, just like it was for you (the media) but look at how our clubs performed in Asian competitions. None of four Iranians club could be successful in the AFC Champions League.”
Ghotbi is hoping for some solace on January 6 when Iran face second-placed Singapore in an AFC Asian Cup qualifier.
Singapore are on six points, one behind Iran and defeat for Team Melli would push Ghotbi closer to the fire.