Iranian footballer faces asset confiscation over photo controversy PHOTO

Iranian footballer Sardar Azmoun, a former striker for Russian clubs Zenit and Rubin Kazan, is facing the possible confiscation of his assets in Iran after being accused of supporting “Israeli and US mercenaries,” according to Iran’s Fars news agency.

The allegations reportedly stem from a photograph published in January 2025 showing Azmoun with the Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates, Caliber.Az reports via Russian media.

The footballer, who has been living and playing in the UAE, currently represents Dubai-based club Shabab Al-Ahli.

Azmoun has already been excluded from Iran’s national team on grounds of alleged “disloyalty.” In 2022, he publicly expressed support for protests against the Iranian government. 

Further details about the legal basis for the potential asset seizure have not been disclosed.

By Sabina Mammadli