A Summer of Transformation: Persepolis Embraces Change
Persepolis FC, one of Iran’s most illustrious football clubs, is undergoing a significant transformation this summer. The club is making strategic moves both on and off the pitch, aiming to maintain its competitive edge. This transformation includes a change in leadership and the acquisition of key players, designed to rejuvenate the team and align with the club’s long-term ambitions.
The New Tactician: Vahid Hashemian Takes the Helm
The appointment of Vahid Hashemian as the new head coach marks a pivotal moment for Persepolis. Hashemian, a former forward for both Persepolis and the Iran national team, took charge on July 6, 2025, following the departure of İsmail Kartal just days earlier. Hashemian brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of Iranian football, qualities that are expected to benefit the team as they navigate the challenges of the upcoming season.
High-Profile Arrivals: Aurier and Bakic Bolster the Squad
Persepolis has been active in the transfer market, securing the services of high-profile players to strengthen their squad. Notably, the club completed the signing of Serge Aurier, a seasoned defender with a history at clubs like Tottenham and Paris Saint-Germain. Aurier joined Persepolis on July 28, 2025, after being without a club since January 2024. Additionally, Montenegrin defender Marko Bakic joined the team on July 18, 2025, further enhancing the club’s defensive options. These signings are expected to bring experience and stability to the team’s backline.
Strategic Departures: Reshaping the Roster for Future Success
In a bid to rejuvenate the squad and lower the average age, Persepolis has parted ways with several veteran players. Six players over the age of 30, including Giorgi Gvelesiani, Farshad Faraji, and Ayoub Al-Maloud, have exited the club. This strategy aligns with the club’s vision of building a dynamic and youthful team capable of competing at the highest levels. Former coach İsmail Kartal also listed Issa Alekasir, Masoud Rigi, and Saeed Sadeghi as surplus to requirements, paving the way for new talent to emerge.
Beyond the Pitch: Fan Expectations and Club Ambitions
The ambitious moves by Persepolis have heightened expectations among the club’s passionate fan base. Supporters are eager to see how the new signings and strategic changes translate into success on the field. The management is also focused on retaining key players, actively working to extend the contracts of influential figures like Omid Alishah and central defenders Morteza Pouraliganji and Mohammad Hossein Kanani-Zadegan. This balanced approach aims to ensure stability while embracing change.
Challenges Ahead: Navigating the New Season
As Persepolis enters the new season, the team faces several challenges. Integrating new players into the squad and establishing a cohesive unit under Hashemian’s leadership will be crucial. The club’s management is optimistic that the blend of experienced signings and emerging talent will propel Persepolis to success. The upcoming fixtures will test the team’s resolve and provide insights into how these changes impact performance on the pitch.
A Fresh Chapter: What This Means for Iranian Football
Persepolis’ transformation is not just significant for the club but also for Iranian football as a whole. The club’s strategic moves reflect a broader trend of professionalization and modernization within the Persian Gulf Pro League. Persepolis’ efforts to lower the squad’s average age and inject fresh talent could set a precedent for other clubs in the region. As Persepolis ushers in a new era, its journey will be closely watched by fans and analysts, eager to see how these changes unfold in the competitive landscape of Iranian football. For more information on Persepolis FC’s latest developments, visit PersianFootball.com and Fan and Facts – Persepolis FC.
