PLDC - Lisbon, Taha Zareei is heading to Portugal on Friday (Aug 15th) to continue his professional career in one of Europe's best football systems.

This 19-year-old has played for Saipa U19 , and was one of Estehglal's youth players in the previous season. This young player has trained with some of the greatest players in Iran, and has worked under the structure of Iran's most successful club, Esteghlal: a club that has two Asian titles under its belt. Zareei has also represented Iran at various youth levels.

The following is an interview with Taha Zareei regarding his move to Portugal:

Why did you decide to move to Europe at such a young age?

To make history. To become the best that I can be. There is no better feeling than knowing you can make your people proud and happy, and to represent them globally. I believe in taking given opportunities and advancing as much as possible. I decided to move to Europe because this way I can excel faster and reach my peak in a professional atmosphere with great facilities and personnel. I will do my best in my time here and I know I can quickly advance.

When I was in Esteghlal, an agent contacted me and asked if I would like to play in Portugal and I accepted. I can't mention club names, because for now this information is classified, till things are finalized. But I'm flying to Lisbon on Friday and I am very happy. The agency I am working with is like a second family to me, and there are two people who I am very close with.

Tell us about your time in Esteghlal.

I trained alongside some of the greats of Iran and learned a lot. Esteghlal has some of the best fans in the world, and I want to thank all of them for supporting me, and the club. One day, I hope to come back to Esteghlal, after I make great progress overseas.

What are your dreams and aspirations in Europe?

I hope to one day play as the "Number 1" in a big club like Porto, Real Madrid, or Chelsea.

Anything else you would like to add?

I would like to change my life because I have endured great hardships and have overcome great obstacles. I have been training my whole life and would like to see the fruit of my hard work.

I would like to thank my parents. I owe everything to them. They dedicated their lives to helping me achieve my goals, and I will make them proud.

My country and my people are important to me, and I hope that I can make them happy and put a smile on their faces.

Last but not least, I want to thank my agency (Loyalty Football Agency). They have done lots of work for me and have been in contact with me daily in order to make my transition easier. They are like my brothers and I couldn't be happier, or ask for a better bunch of people to work with.

By: Arman Tamjidi