TEHRANTIMES - Afshin Ghotbi has praised legendary Mehdi Mahdavikia for the job he has done in his career.

Mahdavikia bade farewell to Persepolis after his team lost to Sepan in penalty shootout in Iran’s Hazfi Cup final in early May.

In an email interview with Mehr News Agency on Tuesday, Ghotbi said, “Mehdi Mahdavi Kia has played an important role in Iranian football history. His contributions will be remembered for many generations. His pace, power, penetrating run down the right flank, and game-changing goals will live forever.”

“He was a great captain, player, and most importantly man. We worked together for a short time in Iran football team, but I will remember him forever. I want to wish him success and happiness in the next phase of his life. As a former coach of Iran football team, I want to thank Mehdi for his incredible career both for club and country,” Shimizu S-Pulse coach added.