Golmohammadi set for Iran U23 job: Report
Yahya Golmohammadi has reportedly reached an agreement with the Iranian Football Federation (FFIRI) on a three-year contract to take charge of the country’s U23 team, subject to resolving outstanding issues with Iraqi club Duhok, Varzesh3 wrote on Tuesday.
Negotiations between the two sides intensified in recent days, with the former Persepolis head coach apparently agreeing to the federation’s terms. The FFIRI is expected to approach Duhok to resolve financial matters and facilitate the termination of Golmohammadi’s contract, paving the way for his appointment to be officially announced.
Golmohammadi’s agent has also appeared to confirm the reports in a social media post, while Duhok officials are reportedly exploring the possibility of appointing Mesut Meral as his replacement.
The anticipated appointment would bring an experienced and highly decorated coach to the Iranian U23 side, which has endured a difficult
Golmohammadi has enjoyed considerable success during his coaching career, particularly at Persepolis, where he won multiple domestic titles and guided the Tehran giants to the final of the AFC Champions League. He has also managed Zob Ahan and Naft Tehran, establishing himself as one of the most successful Iranian coaches of his generation.
Recent discussions between Golmohammadi and the federation reportedly covered several issues, including arrangements for friendly matches, the domestic football calendar, cooperation with the U23 setup and financial terms. The coach is understood to have accepted the federation’s proposed conditions.
If confirmed, Golmohammadi will face a major challenge: guiding Iran to the football tournament at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics and ending the country’s prolonged absence from the Games. Iran has not qualified for the Olympic men’s football tournament since 1976, making the assignment a significant test for the incoming coach.