In-form Zahedi lighting up Malaysian football, chasing Asian glory
When Shahab Zahedi made the surprising move to Malaysian side Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT), few could have predicted the impact he would make. Yet, just eight games into his tenure, the Iranian forward has already racked up six goals and one assist, turning his goal-scoring exploits into a routine headline in Malaysian football. His performances have sparked both admiration and debate, with critics questioning whether his success is a product of a weaker league. Zahedi, however, remains unfazed, focusing instead on his ambitions in AFC Champions League Elite.
Zahedi’s transfer to Malaysia was as unexpected as his scoring streak has become predictable. The former Persepolis striker chose a league that some consider to be outside Asia’s top tier, raising questions about his motivations. Yet, for Zahedi, the decision was deeply professional. “I had several offers, even from Iran, but I preferred to continue abroad,” he explains. “The club’s structure, ambition, and investment in infrastructure convinced me. From the outside, people might see Malaysia and assume a lower level, but this club is different—professional, growing, and perhaps unattainable for many teams.”
His choice appears vindicated. JDT sits atop the Malaysian league, and Zahedi’s goal-scoring form has been nothing short of remarkable. “I have to be happy,” he says. “My job is to score, and doing it consistently brings satisfaction to me, the fans, and the club. The key is to keep this momentum going.”
Not everyone has been quick to praise Zahedi’s achievements. Some critics point to the perceived lower quality of the Malaysian league as a factor behind his success, attempting to diminish his performances. Zahedi’s response is measured but pointed: “I don’t know what to say to that. You’ve never seen me engage in controversy, and I’d rather stay silent and enjoy the journey. But if someone thinks that way, they’re welcome to come here and try it themselves. Maybe they miss scoring and celebrating goals—perhaps they should come and experience it.”
His words carry a quiet confidence, reflecting a player who has learned to let his football do the talking. With his focus firmly on the upcoming clash against Thailand’s Buriram United in Asia’s elite club competition, Zahedi is eager to translate his domestic form onto the continental stage. “We have a crucial match. Last season, the team performed well in Asia, reaching the quarter-finals before losing to Al-Ahli. Naturally, we expect to achieve something big again. But Buriram will be tough.”
Zahedi speaks with palpable admiration for his new club’s facilities and ambitions. “The club’s infrastructure is unmatched—on par with European teams. They’re building a camp inspired by Real Madrid’s, a comprehensive training complex for all age groups. The medical center is unlike anything in Asia, with consultants from Barcelona and Manchester City. The Sultan Ibrahim Stadium is modern and impressive, and the academy collaborates with Borussia Dortmund and Valencia.
“I’ve played in different leagues, but I love this club’s vision. The investment in infrastructure and the future is something you don’t see outside Malaysia. A team with a plan, a structure, and a place among Asia’s elite last season—that’s why I made a professional decision based on the project, not the country’s name.”
Zahedi’s move to Malaysia has also raised questions about his chances of returning to the Iranian national team. Some worry that playing in a league perceived as weaker could harm his prospects. Zahedi, however, remains pragmatic. “I played for Persepolis and in Japan’s league, which no one could describe as weak. The national team has a strong staff that analyses performances based on various parameters. The most important thing a player can do is perform well. I can’t control the coaching staff’s decisions; I can only control my quality, goals, fitness, and performances in domestic and Asian competitions. If I continue this run and do well in the Champions League Elite, I’ve done my part. The rest isn’t in my hands.”
Zahedi’s final thoughts on JDT reveal a club driven by relentless ambition. “This team isn’t satisfied with what it has built. From the outside, you see trophies, wins, and unbeaten runs. But inside, the message is always: ‘Next step.’ They talk about the future every day and have huge ambitions. We’ll have to wait and see what they achieve.”