Mehdi Torabi
LW
Wide Forward
Sep 10, 1994 (31)
Right
5'11"
163 lb
Visa issues resolved
Torabi has received a multi-entry US visa that should allow him to feature in the remaining World Cup contests, Erfan Hoseiny of The Asian Football Show reports.
Analysis: Torabi is presumably set to be in contention for playing time in Iran's upcoming fixtures, although he stayed on the bench in the initial draw against New Zealand, so his role might continue to be limited. The left winger has stood out as a playmaker at the club level and previously produced one assist over 12 national-team outings since 2019. He could eventually replace Aria Yousefi in future games.
Visa expires after opener
Torabi had his US visa expire the day after Iran's opening 2-2 draw against New Zealand, with the single-entry visa proving insufficient for the remainder of the tournament, according to L'Equipe.
Analysis: Torabi's participation in Iran's remaining group stage fixtures is now in serious jeopardy after his document was only valid for a single entry into the United States, while all other Iranian players received multiple-entry visas ahead of the competition. The Iranian Football Federation has begun proceedings to obtain a new visa to allow him to travel with the national team for their upcoming matches, though no immediate response has been received from US authorities or tournament organisers. The issue adds to a series of visa-related difficulties that have plagued the Iranian delegation, with around 15 members of the travelling party previously denied US visas and captain Mehdi Taremi encountering difficulties at Los Angeles airport upon departure.
Back in collective sessions
Torabi (calf) returned to full training with the Iran squad on Monday, confirming his recovery from the calf issue that had been monitored ahead of the World Cup opener against New Zealand on June 15, according to WION.
Analysis: Torabi's return to collective sessions is a positive development for Iran heading into the tournament, with the medical staff having successfully managed his condition in the buildup to the competition. Coach Amir Ghalenoei now has another option available as Iran's final preparations enter their decisive final stage.
Recovering from calf injury
Torabi is recovering from a calf injury as Iran prepare for their World Cup opener against New Zealand on June 15, according to Persian Culer.
Analysis: Torabi's status will be evaluated over the coming days before a clearer picture emerges regarding his availability for the tournament opener. Iran's medical staff are keeping a close eye on his recovery with the competition right around the corner. Torabi is not expected to be a locked-in starter, so his potential absence would only be a minor blow for Iran.
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