Despite signing an official contract with the Tehran-based football club, Mehrdad Pooladi has left Iran for Qatar in the hope of joining a Qatari club. Rumors suggest that he had received several offers from multiple clubs in Qatar, so he is less likely to return to Iran.
Over the past few months, six Iranian football players have joined Qatari football clubs. Footballers receive better wages and perks in Qatar compared to Iran. This has tempted many football players to consider joining Qatari sides.
Mehrdad Pooladi, who also played for the Iranian national football team in the 2014 FIFA World Cup, says he can terminate his contract with Persepolis FC. “There is a clause in my contract which allows me to terminate this contract whenever I receive an offer from a foreign football club,”
“I’m currently negotiating with a number of Qatari clubs, as I have received much interest from different clubs here,” Pooladi said on Friday.
According to media reports, Persepolis officials have already asked Pooladi to return to Iran and take part in training. However, Pooladi has made up his mind to leave Iran for Qatar.
“At this time, I cannot disclose the names of Qatari clubs that are looking to sign with me. But I can make you sure that I will join a Qatari club very soon.” Mehrdad Pooladi concluded.
Persepolis fans have condemned Pooladi for leaving the Reds, as the team is struggling to find its place in the new Iran Pro League. On social networking websites such as Facebook and Twitter, many fans have shown their hatred toward Mehrdad Pooladi.
Pooladi had a notable performance during the World Cup. Although he had not earned interest from European football clubs, Arab clubs apparently are interested in signing with him.