Branko Ivankovic shows interest in returning to Iran

Tehran Times – TEHRAN, Branko Ivankovic has said he will likely return to his second home Iran to continue his coaching career.

In a message posted on his Facebook page, Branko wrote: “Call from Iran! Maybe it’s time for come back to my second home country!?”

Iranian media speculates that Branko could be a candidate for Iran football team since the Portuguese coach Carlos Queiroz has not yet extended his contract with Team Melli.

Also, they have mentioned the 60-year-old coach can be considered as a replacement for Ali Daei in Persepolis.

Newly-promoted Paykan can also be a target for Branko.

Branko Ivankovic was appointed as the head coach of the Iranian football team on 29 January 2002.

Under tutelage of the Croat, Iran’s U23 football team won the 2002 Asian Games in Pusan. Branko then took charge of Iran national team and led the team to the 2006 World Cup, where Team Melli failed to advance to the next stage.

Branko was appointed as head coach of his homeland club Dinamo Zagreb after Iran football federation didn’t renew his contract.

He has also coached Shandong Luneng from china, Saudi Arabian Al-Ettifaq and Al-Wahda of the UAE.