Reds to take on Ali Karimi's former club

Fcbayern - Bayern have confirmed a friendly match against Iranian champions Persepolis in the capital Tehran, to take place during the Munich club's Dubai training camp from 6-16 January. The match on 13 January will be held at the 110,000 capacity Asadi stadium, where Germany contested a friendly international in October 2004.

Bayern's Iranian midfielder Ali Karimi will have special reason to look forward to the game, as he appeared for Persepolis before switching to Al-Ahly in Dubai from 2002-5.

Hoeneß appeals for communication

Anticipating criticism from the political world, Uli Hoeneß vigorously defended the Bavarians' decision to play in Tehran. "It would be a mistake not to go there. Boycotts have never solved problems," the Bayern general manager declared on Thursday. Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has attracted worldwide condemnation for recent anti-Semitic remarks.

"I believe people should always talk. You don't get wars if people are talking," the 54-year-old continued, emphasising the fact the invitation to play had come from the club and not the government.

One friendly in Dubai cancelled

Meanwhile, one of the planned friendlies during the club's stay in the United Arab Emirates has been cancelled following the sudden death of potentate Sheikh Maktum bin Raschid al-Maktum. A game against an Arabian all-star team scheduled for 11 January will no longer take place as it falls within a week of national mourning.

Apart from the Tehran trip, Bayern will probably contest only one friendly actually in Dubai, a meeting with FC Zurich on 15 January. "We have two confirmed fixtures, and that's enough," Hoeneß commented.