Alireza Mansourian Resigns as Head Coach of Esteghlal Football Team

Alireza Mansourian resigned from his position as head coach of Esteghlal Tehran on Wednesday, September 20, following a draw between Esteghlal and Zob Ahan. Members of the coaching staff also resigned after Mansourian's departure. Mohammad Khoramgah, Esteghlal's coach, announced this news to reporters, emphasizing that ethics dictate that the entire coaching staff should stand by Mansourian and leave together. In the press conference after the game against Zob Ahan, Mansourian apologized to all people and football fans in Iran for the events of the program 90. He expressed that he is not upset by the fan who said, 'Have some shame and leave,' as he believes the generation of fans has changed. Some Esteghlal fans chanted harsh slogans against Mansourian at the end of the game, demanding his resignation. The resigned coach stated, 'In Iranian football, we have brother killing. Fans do not wait. They have brought me to the end of the line. I am the loneliest person in the history of Esteghlal. Today I realized that an offside can change a coach's fate. They say that people who shave their heads are lucky, but I was not. If I stay in coaching, I will not face Esteghlal in Azadi Stadium.' According to Esteghlal officials, McDermott will serve as the interim head coach until the club makes a final decision. McDermott will accompany the team in their match against Sepidrood Rasht, although he was sent off against Zob Ahan and cannot sit on the bench in Rasht. Mansourian's resignation comes after seven matches in this year's Premier League, during which his performance has left Esteghlal in 14th place in the league.