Tehran wizard inks deal with Persepolis

MNA – TEHRAN, Ali Karimi, popularly known as the “Wizard of Tehran”, joined Persepolis, according to the official website of the football club.

Karimi had joined Schalke 04 in the winter transfer window on a six-month contract that ended recently. He came off the bench for the last six minutes against Inter Milan in the first leg of the Champions League semifinal where the German club beat defending champion Inter Milan 5-2.

He also played once in Bundeliga against Kaiserlautern.

Karimi joined Persepolis in 1998 and then left the team for Al Ahli of the UAE in 2001. The 33-year-old player inked a two-year deal with Bayern Munich in 2005. Karimi has played for Qatar SC and Al Sailiya as well as Iranian club Steel Azin.

“Ali Karimi has always been interested in playing for Persepolis. He will be handed number 8 in Persepolis in coming season,” Persepolis acting president Habib Kashani said.

“By the way, we are negotiating with our coaching options. So far, four coaches have recommended their programs and Persepolis technical committee will choose the best option within the next few days,” Kashani added.

The 32-year-old player has played 112 times for Iran’s national team and scored 36 goals.