Former Iran coach Ataei warns against ‘excessive scrutiny’ of national volleyball team
Former Iran men’s volleyball head coach Behrouz Ataei has praised the national team’s progress under Italian Roberto Piazza, warning that excessive scrutiny from the media and pundits could undermine the players’ performances by creating unnecessary pressure.
Iran will resume its Volleyball Nations League (VNL) campaign against Ukraine in Belgrade on Wednesday before taking on Germany, Slovenia and Turkey in the third and final week of the preliminary phase.
The young Iranian side has managed just two wins from its first eight matches, sitting 14th in the 18-team standings, but Ataei believes its long-term objectives extend beyond immediate results in the annual competition.
“Iranian volleyball is going through a very challenging year and an extremely complex process,” Ataei said.
“Our goal is not limited to achieving results in the Volleyball Nations League. Maintaining our readiness for the Asian Championship and improving our position in the FIVB world rankings are our main priorities.”
Ataei last guided Iran to the VNL Finals in 2022, a year after leading the country to its most recent Asian title.
As if Iran needed extra motivation to pursue a fifth Asian crown in eight editions when the championship begins on September 4 in Fukuoka, Japan, the winner will secure direct qualification for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games—a prize Ataei described as “strategically important for both the Ministry of Sport and the National Olympic Committee.”
Assessing Iran’s performances in the opening weeks of the VNL, Ataei acknowledged that the results had not always matched expectations but insisted the team’s overall trajectory has been encouraging.
“The team’s preparation was good, the conditions were acceptable, and every effort was made to provide the tools for success,” he said.
“Although the results may not have matched what the coaching staff and fans hoped for, the team has shown positive progress since the opening week.”
“In the second week, despite facing stronger and better-prepared opponents, the team produced improved performances, which shows that it is moving in the right direction.”
Iran suffered five-set defeats to Olympic champion France and unbeaten Japan, either side of a straight-sets loss to second-placed United States in Orléans, France, but bounced back with a four-set victory over Cuba.
Ataei also pointed to the lack of adequate warm-up matches before the VNL as one of the structural challenges facing the national side.
“Because we do not have enough warm-up matches before the tournament, we usually do not produce our best performances in the opening week of the Nations League,” he said.
“As the players gain more match experience, the team’s performances naturally improve.”
The former coach criticized what he described as excessive attention surrounding the national team, arguing that constant public debate over technical matters has become counterproductive.
“Our national team is under far too much scrutiny, and too many people are commenting on every detail,” Ataei said.
“Coaches, analysts and the media are discussing issues that should remain within the team. This level of interference only creates anxiety and concern for both the players and the coaching staff.”
He added that the psychological burden is affecting the team’s performances.
“Our players are constantly worried about results, and that stress only increases the pressure,” Ataei said.
“A team that is always thinking about the outcome cannot perform as freely as it would in a calm environment. The national team needs genuine peace of mind so the players can play with patience and confidence.”
Ataei expressed confidence in Piazza and the current squad, saying any existing shortcomings can be addressed.
“I have complete faith in these players and their abilities,” he said.
“With the wisdom of the coaching staff, the road ahead will improve our overall quality. Everything is in place for success, and any weaknesses can be corrected,” added the Foolad Sirjan head coach.
“Our strategy for the Asian Championship is extremely important because qualifying for the Olympics will make our future path much smoother,” Ataei said.
“I hope the team can deliver outstanding performances and bring joy to the people of Iran and the country’s volleyball family.”