Sunday, November 20, 2022

World Cup player profile: Iran's Mehdi Taremi

Mehdi Taremi has been dominant since moving from Portugal from distinguished Iranian side Persepolis. In his first season in Europe with Rio Ave, he scored 18 goals, earning a move the next summer to Porto after finishing as the joint-top scorer in the Primeira Liga. His first season with the European giants saw him post 18 goals and 11 assists. He followed that up with 22 goals and 14 assists last season, and has picked up where he left off with 13 goals and eight assists in his first 19 games this season. He has performed on big stages as well, with only Kylian Mbappe and Mohamed Salah scoring more than his five goals in the Champions League so far.

With the versatility to be deployed as a lone striker, behind the center forward, or out wide, Taremi can be dangerous from a variety of positions. He typically plays from the left hand side for Team Melli, often arriving in the box late to get on the end of crosses at the back post. He is physically imposing enough to battle with big defenders and win aerial battles, but also has great technique with the ball at his feet. Capable of the spectacular, his bicycle kick in the Champions League against Chelsea in 2021 was nominated as one of the three finalists for the prestigious Puskas Award, given annually to the best goal in the world. 


Taremi has drawn the attention of numerous high-profile clubs, including Arsenal, who he was offered to in January of 2022. The 30 year old is in the prime of his career, and will be key to Iran's attack, whether he is creating the chances for others or finishing them himself.

2022 FIFA World Cup predictions