Amir Ghalenoei, the head coach of Esteghlal FC, says he is completely satisfied with the performance of Esteghlal players in Iran Pro League and AFC Champions League. Ghalenoei believes his side can do even better, if the team receives enough supports from Football Federation.
“I have not yet started my negotiations with the officials of the club. In Iran, the high-ranking authorities of Sports ministry are not usually interested in the services of local coaches. Like the media, they prefer to see foreign coaches instead of Iranians.” Amir Ghalenoei told Pars Herald regarding his future partnership with the Tehran-based club.
Ghalenoei also declared that he has not received any offer from other domestic or foreign clubs. “During the recent years, I had received many offers from UAE and Qatar based football clubs. But I turned them down. I personally prefer to continue my career here in Iran.”
Reports suggest that he is targeting the helm of Team Melli. Carlos Queiroz, Iran’s head coach, has failed to garner enough points with Iran national football team in FIFA World Cup Qualification matches. Of course, Queiroz will be fired if he couldn’t get his side qualified for 2014 World Cup.
Amir Ghalenoei is currently one of the best and most successful coaches of Iran. He has won the titles of Iran Pro League and Hazfi Cup several times with Esteghlal FC and Sepahan. During his coaching career, Amir Ghalenoei has managed Keshavarz, Bargh Tehran, Esteghlal Ahvaz, Mes Kerman and Tractor Sazi. He also led Iran national football team in 2007 Asian cup.