Tehran Times - Persepolis football coach Brank Ivankovic says he is going to transfer his knowledge to Iran football.

“I came to Iran to change your style of play and improve your game. Iranian teams were playing English style of football and it's normal because the sport had been brought to the country by Englishmen. I want to change your traditional game into the modern football, that's why I am here,” Ivankovic said in an interview with Mehr news agency.  

“At the moment, I am Persepolis coach and I am very satisfied with the results we've achieved during the previous years. I am happy to be at the Iran’s most popular team. In 2006, I led Team Melli at the World Cup but I was under pressure at that moment, however I do not want to go back to the past,” he added.

Persepolis have been banned from signing players for the next two transfer windows after their striker Mehdi Taremi breached his contract with Turkey’s football club Caykur Rizespor.

Taremi is also staying out of fields for four-month after FIFA found him guilty.

The Iranian giants also have so many financial problems but Branko believes there is no excuse not to challenge for Iran Professional League title.

“The number of the football clubs are suffering from financial difficulties and I believe that it’s normal. For example AC Milan face financial issues but they play in the Italian league. Iranian clubs Sepahan and Foolad have no financial problems but they face some other big challenges,” he added.

Ivankovic was a nominee to take charge of Croatia football team but Zlatko Dalic replaced Ante Cacic in the European team.

“I was a candidate for the post but it’s not a new story. I wish all the best for Croatia in the World Cup. Iran have also a great future in the World Cup because Team Melli have been prepared very well,” the 63-year-old coach concluded.

Top