Iranian football legend and coach, known for his exceptional skills on the pitch and successful managerial career, earning numerous accolades and admiration from fans worldwide.
Ali Karimi, affectionately known as "The Magician" and the "Asian Maradona," is an Iranian football legend renowned for his exceptional on-the-ball skill, dribbling runs, and playmaking ability. With 38 goals in 127 matches for the Iran national team, Karimi is one of the most prolific players in Iranian football history.
Starting his professional career with Fath Tehran in 1996, Karimi made his mark in the Iranian Pro League, winning two league titles and the Hazfi Cup with Persepolis. His impressive performances caught the attention of top clubs, and in 2001, he signed with UAE Pro League club Al-Ahli Dubai, where he won two cup titles and became the top goalscorer in the 2003-04 season.
In 2005, Karimi made a highly anticipated move to Europe, joining German giants Bayern Munich. During his stint with the club, he won both the Bundesliga and the DFB-Pokal in the 2005-06 season. Later, he rejoined his former coach Felix Magath at Schalke 04, winning a second German Cup.
Karimi made his Iran debut in 1998 and went on to make 127 appearances, participating in five major tournaments, including the 1998 Asian Games, 2000, 2004, and 2007 Asian Cups, and the 2006 FIFA World Cup. His impressive performances earned him numerous awards, including the Asian Footballer of the Year award in 2004.
Karimi has often spoken about the importance of hard work, dedication, and perseverance in achieving success. He has also emphasized the need for Iranian football to focus on developing its youth infrastructure to nurture young talent.
Karimi announced his retirement from professional football in 2014, bringing an end to his 18-year career. He has since transitioned into coaching, with stints as the assistant coach of the Iran U-23 team and the head coach of Iranian club Naft Tehran.
Karimi's success on the pitch has inspired a generation of Iranian footballers, and his commitment to developing youth football in Iran has helped to promote the sport in the country.
"Football is not just about winning or losing, it's about the love and passion you have for the game."
Throughout his illustrious career, Ali Karimi has left an indelible mark on Iranian football, earning him a place among the all-time greats. His legacy continues to inspire and motivate aspiring footballers around the world.
45 Years Old
Iranian midfielder who played for top clubs like Osasuna and Esteghlal, known for his skillful playmaking and goal-scoring ability.
52 Years Old
Iranian football legend who played for top clubs like Persepolis and Al-Nassr, and later managed several teams, including the Iranian national team. Known for his exceptional dribbling skills and goal-scoring ability.
43 Years Old
Armenian-Iranian footballer who played for several clubs and the Iranian national team, known for being the first Christian to captain Iran's team.
