Sardar Azmoun, a forward for the Emirati club “Shabab Al-Ahli”, has once again been included in the Iranian national team squad.

The forward received an invitation to the training camp ahead of friendly matches against the national teams of Uzbekistan (September 24) and Russia (September 29).

"From 2014 to the present day, I have experienced a great deal while wearing the national team jersey. I never felt cut off from the team, even when I wasn't with them. My heart ached for the squad, and I longed to hear the national anthem before the start of a match." "When I found out I’d been called up again, I felt the same joy I did the first time. I hold no grudges against anyone. I have nothing to prove. I’m just happy to have the chance once more to fight for the country I love with all my heart. I missed it. I’m back!" Azmoun shared on social media.

The forward has recorded 91 appearances and 57 goals for the national team. The clubs he has played for include Roma (Italy), Bayer (Germany), Rubin, Zenit, and Rostov (all in Russia), among others.

Azmoun was born in the city of Gonbad-e Kavus in northeastern Iran and is of ethnic Turkmen descent.

The match between the national teams of Iran and Uzbekistan will take place on September 24 at the Istiklol Stadium in Fergana. The match between Russia and Iran will be held on September 29 in Kazan at the Ak Bars Arena.

Previously, the 31-year-old footballer was not included in the squad for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.