Iran: Daei Denies Persepolis, Team Melli Links

GOAL - Iranian legend Ali Daei has denied reports that he could be next in line to take over Iranian Pro League giants Persepolis.

The seven-time champions haven’t lifted the title since 2001 and are looking for a new pair of hands at the helm.

Recently, South Korean assistant coach Afshin Ghotbi, who was born in Iran, was linked with the vacancy.

Daei became the player-coach role of Iranian club Saipa last year and proceeded to lead the unfashionable outfit to the league title in May.

"I didn’t speak to anybody and I don’t think about Persepolis,” Daei told reporters in Hong Kong.

“I have a contract with Saipa and I would like to stay with Saipa.”

There have even been rumours connecting the world’s international record goalscorer to the national team.

“As for the national team, I can’t say now but in the future anything can happen. I’ve learned so many things that have helped me as a coach and I can use my experience and do a lot to improve Iranian football.”

Daei retired from the national team after the 2006 World Cup and his subsequent domestic success was a real bonus for the former Asian Player of the Year.

“It was great for me, in my first season as a coach to become a champion,” he said.

“It’s great for me but it’s just the start of my work. I have big ideas and plans for the team and I want to put those into action.”

The ex-Bayern Munich and Hertha Bertha striker is looking to continental success next season.

“We want to play well in the Asian Champions League,” said Daei.

“There’s still a big gap between Asian and European club football but it is closing and I think it’s better this year than it was last year and I hope that will continue in Asia.”